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Supracondylar humerus fractures in children: a comparison of experiences

Ezio Pescatori1, Antonio Memeo, Angela Brivio

  • 1Azienda Ospedaliera di Melegnano, Cernusco sul Naviglio, Italy.

Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics. Part B
|December 30, 2011
PubMed

Insights

This study found that both supine and prone positioning for percutaneous pinning of pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures are equally effective. Treatment outcomes and complications showed no significant differences between the two surgical approaches.

Area of Science:

  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
  • Traumatology

Background:

  • Supracondylar humerus fractures are the most common elbow injuries in children.
  • Gartland classification grade III fractures require prompt intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the clinical outcomes and complication rates of two percutaneous pinning techniques for pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures.
  • To evaluate the efficacy of supine versus prone positioning during surgical fixation.

Main Methods:

  • A comparative study of 70 pediatric patients (34 in each group) with Gartland grade III supracondylar humerus fractures.
  • Group 1: Percutaneous pinning with Kirschner wires in a supine position, with optional transkeletal traction.
  • Group 2: Percutaneous pinning with Kirschner wires in a prone position, performed within 6 hours of injury.

Main Results:

  • No statistically significant differences were observed in clinical outcomes between the supine and prone groups.
  • Neurovascular complication rates were comparable between the two treatment positions.
  • Both surgical techniques demonstrated similar safety and efficacy profiles.

Conclusions:

  • Percutaneous pinning is a valid treatment for pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures.
  • Both supine and prone positioning techniques yield comparable results and complication rates.
  • Surgical positioning does not appear to influence the overall success of the procedure.

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