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Functional Outcomes of Percutaneous Lateral Pinning in Pediatric Supracondylar Humerus Fractures: A Prospective Study
K Uday Kiran1, Chitarthrajasekar2, S Pajani1
1Department of Orthopaedics, Vinayaka Mission's Medical College, Karaikal, Vinayaka Mission's Research Foundation (DU), Salem, Tamil Nadu, India.
Insights
Percutaneous lateral pinning for pediatric humerus fractures yields excellent functional outcomes. Effective pain management post-surgery is key for optimal recovery and comfort in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Traumatology
- Surgical Techniques
Background:
- Supracondylar humerus fractures are common pediatric elbow injuries.
- Percutaneous lateral pinning is a preferred surgical method due to its safety and low risk of ulnar nerve injury.
- Limited research exists on postoperative pain management alongside functional outcomes for this procedure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess functional outcomes after percutaneous lateral pinning for pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures.
- To evaluate the postoperative analgesic needs in children undergoing this surgical procedure.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study included 24 children (3-12 years) with Gartland type II and III fractures.
- All patients had closed reduction and percutaneous lateral K-wire fixation.
- Functional outcomes were measured using Flynn's criteria, range of motion, and carrying angle; analgesic use was recorded for 6 months.
Main Results:
- 100% of patients achieved excellent to good functional outcomes, with 92% rated as excellent.
- Postoperative pain was significant in the first 48 hours, requiring regular analgesics, then decreased.
- No cases of iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury or loss of fracture reduction were reported.
Conclusions:
- Percutaneous lateral pinning is a reliable technique for stable fixation and excellent functional results in pediatric supracondylar fractures.
- Adequate postoperative pain management is essential for improving patient recovery and comfort.
Background:
Supracondylar fractures of the humerus are among the most common pediatric elbow injuries. Percutaneous lateral pinning is widely used due to its safety profile and reduced risk of ulnar nerve injury. Postoperative pain management plays a crucial role in recovery, yet limited studies evaluate analgesic requirements alongside functional outcomes.
Aim:
To evaluate functional outcomes of percutaneous lateral pinning in pediatric supracondylar fractures and assess postoperative analgesic requirements.
Methodology:
A prospective study was conducted on 24 children aged 3-12 years with Gartland type II and III supracondylar fractures. All patients underwent closed reduction and percutaneous lateral K-wire fixation. Functional outcomes were assessed using Flynn's criteria, range of motion, and carrying angle. Postoperative analgesic use (paracetamol and ibuprofen) was recorded. Follow-up was conducted up to 6 months.
Results:
Excellent to good outcomes were observed in 100% of patients. Most patients (92%) achieved excellent results. Postoperative pain was higher during the initial 48 hour, requiring regular analgesics, but decreased significantly thereafter. No iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury or loss of reduction was observed.
Conclusion:
Percutaneous lateral pinning provides stable fixation with excellent functional outcomes. Effective postoperative analgesic management enhances recovery and patient comfort.
