Transphyseal Fracture of the Distal Humerus

Instructional Course Lectures
|December 13, 2023
PubMed

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.

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