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Treatment with Locking Intramedullary Nailing for Intertrochanteric Fracture of the Femur Utilizing a New Awl with a Distal Positioner
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Obesity as a Predictor of Outcomes in Type III and Type IV Supracondylar Humerus Fractures

Alexander Nazareth1,2, Mathew Schur1, Amanda J Schroeder3

  • 1Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA.

Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma
|February 16, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Obese children with completely displaced humerus fractures face higher risks of severe injury (Gartland type IV) and nerve damage. This study highlights obesity as a risk factor in pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Orthopedics
  • Trauma Surgery
  • Obesity Research

Background:

  • Pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures are common, with obesity increasingly prevalent in children.
  • Understanding obesity's impact on fracture severity and outcomes is crucial for treatment planning.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between obesity and fracture characteristics in operatively treated pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures.
  • To determine if obesity influences complication rates and outcomes in these patients.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective multicenter study involving two Level I pediatric hospitals.
  • Analysis of pediatric patients (<18 years) with Gartland type III and IV supracondylar humerus fractures treated operatively from 2010-2014.
  • Comparison of fracture severity, preoperative nerve palsy, and complication rates between obese and non-obese groups.

Main Results:

  • Obese children had a significantly higher likelihood of Gartland type IV fractures (35% vs. 17%, P = 0.007).
  • Obese children presented with a higher incidence of preoperative nerve palsy (33% vs. 20%, P = 0.03).
  • No significant differences were observed in open reduction, compartment syndrome, or reoperation rates.

Conclusions:

  • Obesity is associated with increased severity (Gartland type IV) in pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures.
  • Obese children with these fractures have a higher risk of preoperative nerve palsy.
  • Findings suggest obesity is a significant risk factor influencing initial fracture presentation in pediatric patients.
Abstract

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