Management of lateral humeral condylar mass fractures in children

SummaryLateral condylar mass (LCM) fractures of the distal humerus comprise 17% of distal humeral fractures and are the second most common injury around the elbow in the paediatric population, after supracondylar fractures. LCM fractures occur most commonly between five and ten years of age, usually as an isolated injury. Whilst an undisplaced LCM fracture can be treated conservatively with regular radiographic observation, the available evidence recommends open reduction and internal fixation for displaced fractures. Growth plate and articular surface should be aligned and restored during open reduction and internal fixation. Missed, inadequately reduced or improperly fixed lateral humeral condylar fractures can lead to stiffness, non-union, malunion, recurrent dislocation, progressive cubitus valgus deformity and tardy ulnar palsy.