Capitellar fracture with bony avulsion of the lateral collateral ligament in a child: Case report

Isolated capitellar fracture is a rare injury accounting for 1% of all elbow fractures Bryan and Morrey (1985) and Poynton et al. (1998). In children, a fall on an outstretched hand, before the fusion of the epiphysis, usually leads to lateral condyle physeal fractures. Very few cases of capitellar fractures in the paediatric population have been reported.

Our patient, a 9-year-old girl presented with a capitellar fracture and lateral collateral ligament (LCL) avulsion of her left elbow. A type IV capitellar fracture, indicated by the double arc sign on the radiogram, was confirmed with 3-dimensional computed tomography. The patient underwent open reduction through a lateral approach and fixation with 2 Herbert's screws. The lateral collateral ligament (LCL) avulsion was repaired with 2 suture anchors. Early mobilization and rehabilitation were started soon after the surgery. Follow-up radiography showed union of the fracture with no signs of osteonecrosis.

Capitellum fracture in children is easily overlooked due to its rarity. And hereby, meticulous history, clinical examination and proper radiological views with high index of suspicion is crucial in order diagnose these injuries. Our patient had type IV capitellar fracture with lateral collateral ligament avulsion. Principles of management of these intra articular fractures include accurate reduction, stable fixation and early mobilization. We used an extensile lateral approach to expose, reduce and fix the fracture. LCL avulsion was fixed with 2 suture anchors.

Capitellum fractures are rare injuries in children. Careful evaluation and proper stable fixation are the cornerstones of good functional results.