Epiphyseal fractures of the elbow in children

Fractures about the elbow are common in children. In addition to the more frequent humeral supracondylar type, fractures of the lateral humeral condyle, the medial humeral epicondyle and the proximal radius often occur. Fortunately, these latter types are rarely associated with neurovascular compromise, as seen with the supracondylar type. However, accurate anatomic reduction is required to permit appropriate growth at these epiphyseal sites and to prevent complications.