Radial nerve palsy associated with slightly angulated pediatric supracondylar humerus fracture

This report reviews a case of radial nerve palsy associated with a supracondylar fracture of the right humerus. The patient was a four-year-old boy. Radiographs of the injury showed simple extension and a slightly angulated fracture. Complete radial nerve palsy was observed at the first consultation. After three months of conservative treatment without any obvious improvement, an operative exploration of the right radial nerve was conducted. Intraoperatively, the nerve was found to be transected, with both ends of the ruptured nerve buried in scar tissue at the fracture site. Five months after the nerve suture operation, the palsy was cured completely. This case shows that even a minimal displacement fracture can be associated with severe nerve injury that requires surgical treatment.