Pediatric displaced radial neck fractures: retrospective results of a modified Metaizeau technique

Treatment of displaced radial neck fractures is challenging and controversial, as the risk of unsatisfactory outcome increases after operative as well non-operative treatment. Between 2004 and 2012, we treated 14 children with type IV fracture of radial neck with mean angulation of 72.8°, using the modified Metaizeau technique. The average follow-up was 39 months. Heterotrophic ossification and transient posterior interosseous nerve palsy were the only complication seen in two patients who had to undergo open reduction. We feel that the inability to achieve closed reduction can be attributed to loss of periosteal hinge. We obtained 100 % excellent clinical outcome and 79 % excellent radiological outcome at final follow-up. The modified closed intramedullary pin reduction technique proved to be minimal invasive technique for displaced radial neck fractures by allowing stable anatomic reconstruction while avoiding all the complications of classical Metaizeau technique.