Functional and Radiological Outcome in Delayed Presenting Closed Displaced Lateral Condyle Fracture of Humerus in...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Pediatric Orthopedics
• Traumatology

Background:

• Displaced, neglected lateral condyle humerus fractures in children present unique management challenges.
• Delayed presentation can complicate surgical outcomes and functional recovery.
• Optimal treatment strategies for these specific fracture types require ongoing evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the functional and radiological outcomes of treating displaced, neglected lateral condyle humerus fractures in children using open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with Kirschner wire.
• To evaluate the efficacy of ORIF with Kirschner wire in delayed-presenting cases.
• To correlate radiological union with functional recovery using the Mayo elbow score.

Main Methods:

• Prospective cohort study from July 2013 to May 2019.
• Included 44 children (aged 2-15 years) with Milch type I and II displaced, neglected lateral condyle humerus fractures (≥4 weeks old).
• Assessed carrying angle and infection clinically; evaluated union and elbow function radiologically via Mayo elbow score.

Main Results:

• The mean age of participants was 6.82 ± 2.83 years.
• Milch type I fractures occurred in 25% and type II in 75% of cases.
• Post-operative Mayo elbow scores indicated good to excellent functional outcomes and union in delayed-presenting fractures.

Conclusions:

• Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with Kirschner wire is an effective treatment for displaced, neglected lateral condyle humerus fractures in children.
• The surgical technique demonstrates favorable functional and radiological results, even in cases with delayed presentation.
• Kirschner wire fixation provides reliable bone union and good elbow function recovery in this pediatric population.