Comparison of Usability of Sagittal Plane Parameters with Baumann Angle in Radiological Imaging of Supracondylar...

Radiological studies in supracondylar humerus fractures (SCHF) often focus on coronal plane imaging. In our study, we focused on the measurements used in elbow sagittal plane imaging. We investigated the role of humeral shaft condylar angle (SCA) and lateral capitellohumeral angle (LCHA) in determining the reduction quality by comparing them with Baumann angle (BA). İnvestigated its effectiveness in assessing the reduction of the teardrop figure and in the follow-up period.

Eighty-eight patients with SCHF were included in the study. BA, SCA and LCHA measurements were taken on the non-fractured contralateral elbow. The same measurements were made on the post-reduction radiographs of the fractured side and the two groups were compared. Angular measurements were performed on 98 healthy children to determine the normal values of SCA and LCHA. Teardrop figure was evaluated and compared as present or absent in the pre-fracture, post-reduction and 3-month control radiographs of 88 surgically treated patients.

SCA and LCHA were found to be statistically different between the two groups (p = 0.002 and p < 0.001). BA was statistically consistent in both groups (p = 0.160). The reformation of the teardrop figure compared to post-fracture; when compared in post-reduction and postoperative 3rd-month radiographs, was statistically significant (p = 0.027, p < 0.001).

BA is an important parameter for evaluating reduction. SCA and LCHA were found to be unsuccessful in evaluating reduction. Additionally, evaluating the teardrop figure after reduction and in follow-ups is important in terms of assessing reduction quality and monitoring healing.