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Transphyseal Fracture of the Distal Humerus
Insights
Transphyseal distal humerus fractures in young children require prompt identification and treatment. Common complications like cubitus varus can be addressed with corrective osteotomy to restore normal arm alignment.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Pediatric orthopedics
- Pediatric trauma
Background:
- Transphyseal distal humerus fractures are common in children under 4 years.
- These injuries result from birth trauma, nonaccidental trauma, or falls.
- Timely diagnosis and management are crucial for successful outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diagnosis and management of transphyseal distal humerus fractures in children.
- To discuss common complications and their treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on pediatric transphyseal distal humerus fractures.
- Discussion of treatment modalities including closed reduction and percutaneous pinning.
- Elbow arthrograms are often used to aid in diagnosis and treatment.
Main Results:
- Cubitus varus is the most frequent complication, stemming from growth arrest, malunion, or osteonecrosis.
- These complications can lead to altered carrying angles.
Conclusions:
- Early identification and intervention are key for managing these fractures.
- Corrective lateral closing wedge osteotomy can restore normal carrying angles and address cubitus varus.
Abstract:
Transphyseal fractures of the distal humerus often occur in children younger than 4 years as a result of birth trauma, nonaccidental trauma, or falls from a low height. It is important to identify and treat these injuries in a timely manner to ensure successful management. Most transphyseal fractures of the distal humerus are treated with closed reduction and percutaneous pinning with the aid of an elbow arthrogram. The most common complication following a fracture is cubitus varus caused by growth arrest, malunion, or osteonecrosis of the medial condyle. Normal carrying angles may be restored through corrective lateral closing wedge osteotomy.
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