Close reduction and percutaneous pinning in displaced supracondylar humerus fractures in children

BackgroundDisplaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children are common pediatric injuries treated by orthopedic surgeons. They also have a high rate of complications if not reduced and stabilized in optimal position which may lead to serious neurovascular injuries and residual deformity. Amongst the various methods used for treating these fractures, closed reduction and percutaneous pinning has shown improved results.MethodBetween March 2005 and April 2010, 277 cases of supracondylar humeral fractures (Gartland grade II and III) with less then 1 week old were included in this study. They were treated with closed reduction and percutaneous pinning with crossed Kirschner wires under image intensifier control. Clinical outcome were assessed according to Flynn's criteria.ResultsThe mean age at the time of operation was 6 years (range 2–10 years) and the average duration of follow-up was 4.6 years (range 2.1–7.2 years). The Flynn's criteria were excellent in 202, good in 68, fair in 5 and only 2 with poor results.ConclusionClosed reduction and percutaneous pinning is a sound and effective treatment for displaced supracondylar fractures.