[Fractures of the lateral condyle of the elbow in children. Radiologic aspects]

Fractures of the lateral condyle of the humerus classified as type IV in Salter schema are difficult to diagnose when the capitellum is not ossified. Therefore it is necessary to know exactly the radiological lines which are constructed from the humerus and the radius to the capitellum. Diagnosis is also difficult when the ossification center of the capitellum humeri is only slightly displaced. The epiphyseal fracture line which is always visible at surgery can be missed on X-Ray when ossification has not yet appeared. Laminograms are necessary in some cases to be sure that the fracture is displaced. Displaced fractures are always treated by open reduction.