Predictors of early elbow function following paediatric humeral supracondylar fractures: A retrospective analysis

Supracondylar fracture usually occurs as a result of fall on an outstretched hand. Prompt management is essential to prevent complications. Functional outcome after management of this fracture may be predicted by some factors.

The study aimed to review the management of supracondylar fractures and determine what factors have an impact on the functional outcome of the elbow using MEPS score in the early post-operative period.

This study was a retrospective study of all patients with supracondylar fractures that presented at the accident and emergency department of a tertiary institution over a 2-year period. Their relevant data were retrieved from their folders and analysis done using SPSS 20. The MEPS score at 6 months was calculated. Multiple linear regressions were used to determine factors that can predict early elbow function using the MEPS score at 6 months.

In the study, 61.4% (35) patients were males and 38.6% (22) females. The commonest mechanism of injury was fall on the outstretched hand (FOOSH), 70.2%. The mean duration of presentation to the hospital was 38 h (SD = 56.9). Among treatment offered to the patients, a higher number had open reduction with pinning. The mean postoperative Mayo elbow score was 87.6. Age of patients, Gartland type and the duration of cast immobilization were significant predictors of the MEPS at 6 months after treatment.

The Gartland type and duration of cast immobilization are the most important predictors of the MEPS score at 6 months in this study.