Delayed Revision Closed Reduction and Percutaneous Pinning of a Pediatric Supracondylar Humerus Fracture: A Case Report.

Supracondylar humerus fractures (SCH) are the most prevalent elbow fractures in the pediatric age group. Delay in treatment poses challenges and an elevated risk of complications. We describe a case of revision for postoperative malalignment with closed reduction percutaneous pinning with good clinical outcomes. Malunion complications in SCH can be minimized with early intervention in cases of postoperative displacement. Careful use of technical skills can help with closed reduction in cases with delayed presentation.

Animated video reduces pain and anxiety during pin removal in children with supracondylar humerus fractures: a randomized controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study; is to determine the level of pain and anxiety experienced by pediatric patients with operated humeral supracondylar fractures during pin removal, and to investigate the effectiveness of animated video impressions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This randomized controlled study included 180 patients aged between 4 and 12 years. The patients were divided into four groups: Group 1-control; Group 2-watched the introductory animation video before the procedure; Group 3-using analgesic before the procedure (ibuprofen 10 mg/kg); Group 4-watched the introductory animation video and used analgesic before the procedure. To assess pain before randomization, before-during-after procedure, and at outpatient clinic controls; the Wong-Baker Pain Scale (WBS), modified CHEOPS (Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Pain Scale), and the child's heart rate were used. To assess anxiety; the Children's Anxiety Meter (CAM), The Short State Anxiety Inventory Scale (SAIS), and The Children's Emotion Management Scales (CEMS) were used. RESULTS: While a significant difference was detected between the groups in the tests performed at certain intervals (p < 0.001), no significant difference was detected between Groups 1-3 and Groups 2-4. The Modified CHEOPS and CEMS values obtained during the procedure showed significant variability between the groups (p < 0.001). Similarly, While a significant difference was detected between the groups in the WBS scores measured during the procedure (p < 0.001), it was observed that there was no significant relationship between Groups 1-3 and Groups 2-4 (p = 0.892, p = 0.820). CONCLUSIONS: Watching an introductory animated video before pin removal is an effective method to relieve the anxiety and pain felt in children with supracondylar fractures.

Treatment of supracondylar fractures of the humerus in adults using a novel anatomical locking plate on the anterior distal humerus: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Due to its unique anatomical characteristics, supracondylar fractures of the humerus are often difficult to achieve firm fixation with internal fixation equipment, resulting in delayed functional exercise, often leaving cubitus varus deformity, elbow stiffness, contractures, and other complications. Here, we report an adult patient with a supracondylar fracture of the humerus who underwent internal fixation through an anterior median incision in the humerus with our self-developed anterior anatomical locking plate of the distal humerus. CASE PRESENTATION: A 29-year-old male patient of Chinese ethnicity with trauma-induced right supracondylar fracture of the humerus and multiple soft tissue contusions, without nerve damage, blood vessel damage, or other injuries, underwent an internal incision in our hospital using a new anatomical locking plate for the anterior distal humerus fixed treatment. During the 16-month follow-up period, the patient's elbow range of motion was almost completely restored, functional scores were excellent, and there were no minor or major postoperative complications. CONCLUSION: In this study, we propose a surgical reconstruction strategy for adult patients with supracondylar humeral fractures. Through the anterior median incision of the humerus, open reduction and internal fixation were performed with an anatomic locking plate on the anterior side of the distal humerus to restore and fix the structure of the distal humerus, and satisfactory clinical results were achieved in our case.

Minimally invasive techniques utilizing the "Joy Stick" method for managing irreducible flexion-type supracondylar fractures of the humerus in older children.

OBJECTIVE: In this study, we investigated the efficacy of percutaneous poking reduction and Kirschner wire fixation in older children with irreducible supracondylar flexion-type fractures of the humerus. METHODS: This retrospective investigation included 27 children, comprising 15 males and 12 females, aged between 10 years and 3 months to 14 years and 11 months, all diagnosed with a flexion-type supracondylar fracture of the humerus within one week of trauma. All patients underwent surgery under general anesthesia. Following unsuccessful manual reduction, percutaneous poking reduction with Kirschner wires was performed under C-arm fluoroscopy to achieve fracture reduction. Following successful reduction, three 2.0 mm Kirschner wires were inserted in a cross pattern to secure the fracture ends. Postoperatively, the elbow joint was immobilized in a functional position with a plaster cast for four weeks. RESULTS: Follow-up in the outpatient department ranged from 9 to 36 months. Clinical functional assessment using Flynn's criteria rated 24 cases as excellent, 2 as good, and 1 as fair, yielding an overall efficacy of 96.3%. No cases of fracture re-displacement, fracture fragment necrosis, or other complications such as nonunion, iatrogenic nerve injury, myositis ossificans, or long-term elbow joint dysfunction were observed during the postoperative follow-up. CONCLUSION: The percutaneous poking reduction and Kirschner wire fixation technique is a simple and reliable procedure for treating irreducible flexion-type supracondylar fractures of the humerus in older children, with minimal trauma. This technique offers substantial stability for the fracture and results in excellent long-term recovery of joint function.

Retrograde intramedullary nail fixation with oblique fixed angle screws versus locking plates in periprosthetic supracondylar fractures after total knee arthroplasty.

PURPOSE: Common surgical procedures in the treatment of periprosthetic distal femur fractures (PPFF) include osteosynthesis with fixed angle locking plates (LP) and retrograde intramedullary nails (RIN). This study aimed to compare LPs to RINs with oblique fixed angle screws in terms of complications, radiographic results and functional outcome. METHODS: 63 PPFF in 59 patients who underwent treatment in between 2009 and 2020 were included and retrospectively reviewed. The anatomic lateral and posterior distal femoral angle (aLDFA and aPDFA) were measured on post-surgery radiographs. The Fracture Mobility Score (FMS) pre- and post-surgery, information about perceived instability in the operated leg and the level of pain were obtained via a questionnaire and previous follow-up (FU) examinations in 30 patients (32 fractures). RESULTS: The collective (median age: 78 years) included 22 fractures treated with a RIN and 41 fractures fixed with a LP. There was no difference in the occurrence of complications (median FU: 21.5 months) however the rate of implant failures requiring an implant replacement was higher in fractures treated with a LP (p = 0.043). The aPDFA was greater in fractures treated with a RIN (p = 0.04). The functional outcome was comparable between both groups (median FU: 24.5 months) with a lower outcome in the post-surgery FMS (p = < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Fractures treated with RIN resulted in an increased recurvation of the femur however the rate of complications and the functional outcome were comparable between the groups. The need for implant replacements following complications was higher in the LP group.

Top fifty cited articles on humeral fractures.

Background: Humeral fractures (HF) are common orthopedic pathologies. Reviewing the content and quality of influential literature over time is important to advance scientific research regarding a specific topic. This study aims to explore and appraise the fifty most cited HF studies that had been published in orthopedic literature. Methods: The Web of Science database was used to conduct a systematic search for articles pertaining to HF. Articles were sorted out in descending order of citations and were included based on their relevance to HF. Data and metrics of the included studies were recorded. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using the Modified Coleman Methodology Score (MCMS) and the Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies criteria. Statistical analysis was conducted to explore any significant relationships between the date of publication and other relevant variables. Results: Included articles (N = 50) were published between 1959 and 2015, with a total of 14,864 accumulated citations. Europe and North America contributed to all but one of the included studies. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery contributed to the highest number of included articles with 27 articles (54%). The proximal humerus was the most commonly explored HF location in our study (72%). The average MCMS and Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies scores were reported to be 64.6 and 10.4, respectively, and the majority of articles (52%) were considered level four case series. Year of publication was found to have a positive correlation with increasing level of evidence(r = -0.301, P = .044), citation density (r = 0.734, P < .001), and MCMS score (r = 0.41, P = .01). Conclusion: The level of evidence, MCMS scores, and citation density of influential HF literature has been increasing with time, reflecting the increasing effort and work being put in that field. While the findings seem encouraging, additional high-quality research is needed to help achieve better treatment strategies and outcomes.

Management of Pediatric Supracondylar Humerus Fractures Using Lateral Cross-Wiring Technique Under Fluoroscopic Guidance.

BACKGROUND:  Supracondylar humeral fractures are the most prevalent elbow fractures in pediatric patients. Current treatment modalities typically involve closed reduction and fixation using percutaneous Kirschner wires. The lateral cross-wiring technique has demonstrated favorable functional and cosmetic outcomes, thereby reducing the incidence of ulnar nerve injury. OBJECTIVES:  This study aimed to assess the efficacy of the lateral cross-wiring technique in achieving optimal functional and cosmetic recovery while mitigating the risk of ulnar nerve injury in pediatric patients with displaced supracondylar humeral fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective analysis was conducted on 48 patients who underwent lateral cross-wiring for displaced supracondylar fractures (Gartland type III, including extension and flexion types) of the humerus. Follow-up assessments were performed over a minimum period of eight months post-surgery. RESULTS: Among the 48 patients, all demonstrated satisfactory restoration of the carrying angle and functional ability postoperatively. Notably, no iatrogenic cases of radial or ulnar nerve injury were observed during the follow-up period. CONCLUSION:  The lateral cross-wiring technique emerges as an effective treatment option for displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus in pediatric patients. It facilitates both functional and cosmetic recovery while concurrently reducing the risk of ulnar nerve injury, thus warranting consideration in the management of such fractures.

Minimally invasive surgical technique for unstable supracondylar humerus fractures in children (Gartland type III or IV).

Background: Achieving and maintaining anatomical reduction during the treatment of pediatric humerus fractures, classified as Gartland type III or IV, presents a clinical challenge. Herein, we present a minimally invasive surgical approach using a novel and simple K-wire push technique that aids in achieving and maintaining anatomical reduction. Methods: We reviewed data of children receiving treatment for supracondylar fractures of the humerus at our hospital between January 2016 and December 2020. Patients were divided into two groups based on the method of treatment: Group 1 was treated with the K-wire push technique, and Group 2 was treated with the standard technique as described by Rockwood and Wilkins. The medical records and radiographic images were reviewed. In total, 91 patients with Gartland types III and IV fractures were included, with 37 and 54 patients in Groups 1 and 2, respectively. Results: The postoperative reduction radiographic parameters and Flynn scores at final follow-up were not significantly different between the two groups. Conclusion: The minimally invasive K-wire push technique for unstable supracondylar fractures in children is a safe and effective alternative for improving reduction. Using this technique, complications can be minimized, and the requirement for open reduction can be reduced.

Cubitus varus deformity following paediatric supracondylar humeral fracture remodelling predominantly in the sagittal direction: A three-dimensional analysis of eighty-six cases.

PURPOSE: Three-dimensional (3D) capacity for remodelling in cubitus varus deformity (CVD) after paediatric supracondylar humeral fractures (PSHFs) remains unelucidated. This study investigated remodelling patterns after PSHFs by examining 3D deformity distribution over time after injury. METHODS: Computed tomography (CT) data of 86 patients with CVD after PSHFs were analysed. The 3D deformity angles in the sagittal, coronal, and axial directions were assessed and correlated with the duration between the age at injury and CT evaluation. For the subgroup analysis, we performed the same correlation analysis in a younger (< 8 years old) and an older group (≥ 8 years old); we categorized the duration into early (< 2 years), middle (≥ 2 to < 5 years), and late periods (≥ 5 years) and compared the deformity angles of each direction among the three groups. RESULTS: Sagittal deformity showed a moderate correlation with the duration of deformity (r = -0.54; P < 0.001), while coronal and axial deformities showed a negligible correlation. Sagittal deformity showed moderate correlations with the duration in the younger group (r = -0.62; P < 0.001) and weak correlations in the older group (r = -0.37; P = 0.091). In the sagittal direction, the deformity angle in the early period was significantly larger than those in the mid and late periods (P < 0.001). However, there were no significant differences among the three groups in the coronal and axial directions. CONCLUSION: Sagittal deformities in CVDs are capable of remodelling, especially in the early period and at a younger age, whereas coronal and axial deformities are less likely to undergo remodelling.

Paediatric supracondylar fractures: assessment and management.

Supracondylar fractures of the distal humerus are the most common fracture around the elbow in children. A thorough initial assessment must be conducted to identify any associated neurovascular injury and carefully documented. The assessment should include a vascular examination of the radial pulse, temperature, colour and capillary refill time. A neurological examination must comment on the motor and sensory function of the radial, median and ulnar nerves. X-rays allow an evaluation of the fracture location and type, and the degree of displacement. Immobilisation in plaster is the gold standard treatment for paediatric supracondylar fracture of the humerus where the degree of displacement is within acceptable parameters. Casting should be followed by orthogonal radiographs and a repeat neurovascular assessment of the limb. Oral analgesia and safety netting information should be provided on discharge, and the child reviewed in a fracture clinic within 1 week of the injury. The British Orthopaedic Association Standards for Trauma and Orthopaedics for supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children are useful for junior orthopaedic and emergency medicine clinicians to refer to when dealing with these injuries.

Residual Deformity of the Trochlea After Non-displaced Supracondylar Fracture in a Child: A Case Report.

Residual deformity of the trochlea after fractures of the distal end of the humerus in children is well known and is referred to as fishtail deformity. Despite numerous reports on this entity, the reason for various types of fractures with the same results remains unknown. Fishtail deformities after non-displaced supracondylar fractures are very rare. A 7-year-old boy with a non-displaced supracondylar fracture was treated conservatively. Three years later, the patient returned to our hospital complaining of mild elbow pain. Radiography revealed a fishtail deformity of the trochlea due to the premature fusion of the epiphysis. At the latest follow-up at the age of 17 years, only a marginal limitation at the excursion of the elbow was observed, and no additional treatment was needed. Fishtail deformities can occur even after a non-displaced supracondylar fracture. Long-term follow-ups are required in children with distal humeral fractures.

A new technique of intramedullary elastic reduction of the "de-sharpened" Kirschner wire for the treatment of Gartland type III posterolateral displaced supracondylar fracture of the humerus in children.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the clinical effects of intramedullary elastic reduction of the "de-sharpened Kirschner wire and traditional three-dimensional manipulation in the treatment of Gartland type III posterolateral supracondylar fracture of the humerus in children. METHODS: A retrospective cohort analysis was made on 106 cases of Gartland type III posterolateral supracondylar fracture of the humerus treated in the Department of Orthopaedics of a Children's Hospital from March 2020 to March 2022. According to different surgical technology, the patients were divided into two groups: intramedullary elastic reduction of the de-sharpened Kirschner wire group (experimental group, n = 50) and traditional three-dimensional manipulation group (control group, n = 56). The surgical operating time, intraoperative fluoroscopy times, postoperative Baumann angle changes, postoperative elbow function Flynn score, and complications were collected and compared between the two groups. RESULTS: All the enrolled cases underwent surgery successfully and were followed-up at least 6 months. The surgical operating time of the experimental group was 32.88 ± 3.69 min and that of the control group was 45.56 ± 10.13 min, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The intraoperative fluoroscopy times were 20.62 ± 5.41 times in the experimental group and 32.48 ± 8.20 times in the control group (P < 0.05). The change of Baumann angle in the experimental group after operation was 2.3 ± 1.3 and that in the control group was 6.0 ± 2.1 (P < 0.5). Elbow joint Flynn scoring standard to evaluate the curative effect: the excellent and good rate was 98.00% (49/50) in the experimental group and 92.86% (52/56) in the control group (P > 0.5). There were no complications such as osteomyelitis, compartment syndrome, iatrogenic vascular and nerve injury, and myositis ossificans in either group. CONCLUSIONS: Good functional outcome can be obtained with both intramedullary elastic reduction of the de-sharpened Kirschner wire and traditional three-dimensional manipulation for Gartland type III posterolateral displaced supracondylar fracture of the humerus in children; however, the former does not need repeated manipulation, and the operation time is shorter, the number of intraoperative fluoroscopy is less, and the recovery of the Baumann angle is better.

Neurovascular injury from supracondylar fractures in children: a 10-year experience of 762 cases.

We evaluated the management of supracondylar paediatric fractures at our institution over a 10-year period in this retrospective cohort study. In total, 762 children with a supracondylar fracture were treated. The mean age of injury was 5.2 years. The incidence of documented nerve and/or vascular injury was 8.3%. A total of 26 patients had early plastic surgeon involvement; of these, 25 had an open exploration. Eight patients required vein grafting for brachial artery reconstruction for intimal tears. There was one nerve rupture requiring repair and 12 children underwent neurolysis. There were 17 late referrals to the plastic surgery service, of which three were explored (two neurolysis, one neuroma resection and sural nerve grafting). In all cases of nerve injury, the deficit took 7.9 months to recover, indicating a more significant injury than neurapraxia. Early exploration of supracondylar fractures allows direct visualization of the extent of neurovascular injury and immediate intervention.Level of evidence: IV.

The use of ultrasound for monitoring reduction and ulnar nerve subluxation in pediatric humeral supracondylar fractures.

BACKGROUND: Traditional treatment for displaced humeral supracondylar fractures (SCFs) in children involves closed reduction (CR) under fluoroscopic guidance, percutaneous pinning, and immobilization with a long-arm cast. This study aims to explore the viability of using radiation-free ultrasound (US) for guiding CR and tracking ulnar nerve dynamics during medial pinning, contrasting the US method with the conventional cross pinning technique. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We assessed 70 children with acute displaced SCFs. The US group (n = 30) underwent US-guided reduction, whereas the traditional group (n = 40) underwent fluoroscopy-guided reduction. Both groups received percutaneous cross pinning and subsequent cast immobilization. Postoperative outcomes were compared between the two methods after a 6-month follow-up. In the US group, ultrasonography assessed fracture displacement distances before and after CR. The angle at which the ulnar nerve relocated to the cubital tunnel during elbow extension was documented using real-time US monitoring during medial pinning. RESULTS: The US group demonstrated improved reduction accuracy, increased range of motion, superior restoration of both Baumann and Humeroulnar angles, and a decreased incidence of malunions compared to the traditional group (all p < 0.05). The ultrasonographic measurement of fracture displacement was comparable with that of fluoroscopy (intraclass correlation coefficient > 0.90). In the US group, no ulnar nerve injury was noted, compared to 2.5 % in the traditional group, and real-time US observations revealed ulnar nerve hypermobility, with 53.3 % of patients exhibiting anterior ulnar nerve subluxation at 120° elbow flexion, 40 % at 90°, 16.7 % at 60°, and none at 30° flexion. CONCLUSION: Ultrasound is as reliable as fluoroscopy for evaluating fracture reductions. The use of intra-operative ultrasound significantly improves reduction accuracy and radiographic outcomes while reducing the risk of ulnar nerve injury.

Osteotomías correctoras en secuelas de fracturas supracondíleas de codo en la población pediátrica: revisión bibliográfica sistematizada / Corrective osteotomies in sequelae of supracondylar elbow fractures in the pediatric population: systematized bibliographic review / Osteotomias corretivas em sequelas de fraturas supracondilianas do cotovelo na população pediátrica: revisão bibliográfica sistemática

El cubito varo es la secuela más frecuente en las fracturas supracondíleas de humero en la población pediátrica, objetivo analizar los diferentes tipos de osteotomías y los métodos fijación para el tratamiento de estas lesiones. Materiales y métodos: se realizo una búsqueda bibliográfica utilizando como motor de búsqueda la plataforma Pubmed y OVID, las palabras claves fueron Cubitus AND varus AND osteotomy. Resultados: se seleccionaron 13 artículos, con un N de 237 pacientes, follow-up de 30 meses, edad al momento de la cirugía fue 8,78 años. La técnica de osteotomía más utilizada fue la de cierre lateral. 35.4% se fijaron con placas, 24.8% con fijadores externos y 33.3% fijación con kw/pins. Conclusión: las técnicas de osteotomías utilizadas actualmente logran corrección angular. No se encontraron diferencias significativas entre los resultados de las técnicas analizadas. No existe un implante que sea superior a otro a la hora de realizar la fijación de las osteotomías de humero distal. Cada implante tiene ventajas y desventajas.

Cubitus varus is the most frequent sequelae in supracondylar humeral fractures in the pediatric population, the objective is to analyze the different types of osteotomies and fixation methods for the treatment of these injuries. Materials and methods: a bibliographic search was carried out using the Pubmed and OVID platform as a search engine, the keywords were Cubitus AND varus AND osteotomy. Results: 13 articles were selected, 237 patients, follow-up of 30 months, age at the time of surgery was 8.78 years. The most used osteotomy technique was lateral closure. 35.4% were fixed with plates, 24.8% with external fixators and 33.3% fixation with kw/pins. Conclusion: the osteotomy techniques currently used achieve angular correction. No significant differences were found between the results of the analyzed techniques. There is no implant that is superior to another when fixing distal humerus osteotomies. Each implant has advantages and disadvantages.

A deformidade em varo do cotovelo é uma complicação comum das fraturas supracondilares do úmero na população pediátrica, o objetivo foi analisar os diferentes tipos de osteotomias e métodos de fixação para o tratamento dessas lesões. Materiais e métodos: foi realizada uma pesquisa bibliográfica utilizando as plataformas Pubmed e OVID como mecanismo de busca, as palavras-chave forom Cubitus AND varus AND osteotomy. Resultados: foram selecionados 13 artigos, com N de 237 pacientes, seguimento de 30 meses, idade no momento da cirurgia foi de 8,78 anos. A técnica de osteotomia mais utilizada foi a ressecção de cunha óssea com base laterala. 35,4% foram fixados com placas, 24,8% com fixações externas e 33,3% foram fixados com kw/pins. Conclusão: as técnicas de osteotomia utilizadas atualmente conseguem correção angular. Não forom encontradas diferenças significativas entre os resultados das técnicas analisadas. Não existe implante superior a outro na fixação de osteotomias distais do úmero. Cada implante tem vantagens e desvantagens.

Gartland type III extension supracondylar humerus fracture in a 10-year-old child. A surgical case report of an infrequent technique of medial and lateral column stabilization.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Supracondylar humeral fractures in children are the most common fractures of the elbow accounting for 16 % of all pediatric fractures. The treatment depends on age, the degree of displacement, and the presence of additional injuries. PRESENTATION OF CASE: A case reports a 10-year-old girl with a Gartland type III supracondylar humeral fracture accompanied by anterior interosseous nerve neurapraxia preoperatively. The patient was treated operatively with medial and lateral column cross-pinning using four K-wires due to unsatisfactory closed reduction and lateral pinning only. Follow-up examinations performed in 1 and 6 months postoperatively revealed a 10° flexion contracture of the elbow with good functional and radiological results otherwise. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: The main intervention was not focused on the AIN neuropraxia itself but on unsatisfactory closed reduction followed by cross-fixation with lateral pinning only. A standard anterior approach to visualize the fracture line, free interposing tissues, and perform stabilization was utilized. The unusual use of an additional medial pin formed a cross-frame to adequately support the medial cortex. CONCLUSION: Closed reduction and percutaneous pinning are the preferred treatment options for most displaced supracondylar fractures. The open reduction via anterior approach and pinning for Gartland type III fracture gives good outcomes. Medial pinning is mandatory in particular fracture patterns and in case of unsatisfactory closed reduction. In the presented case medial and lateral column cross-pinning technique using four K-wires guaranteed no subsequent displacement on follow-up assessment and good results.

[Reconstruction of medial and lateral column periosteal hinge using Kirschner wire to assist in closed reduction of multi-directional unstable humeral supracondylar fractures in children].

Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of medial and lateral column periosteal hinge reconstruction using Kirschner wire in the closed reduction of multi-directional unstable humeral supracondylar fractures in children. Methods: A clinical data of 43 children with multi-direction unstable humeral supracondylar fractures, who met the selection criteria and were admitted between August 2020 and August 2022, was retrospectively analyzed. Twenty-one cases of fractures were treated wuth closed reduction after medial and lateral column periosteal hinge reconstruction using Kirschner wire and percutaneous Kirschner wires fixation (study group), while 22 cases of fractures were treated by traditional closed reduction technique and percutaneous Kirschner wire fixation (control group). There was no significant difference in gender, age, cause of injury, fracture side, and interval from injury to operation between the two groups ( P>0.05). The operation time, intraoperative fluoroscopy times, the number of children who were changed to open reduction after closed reduction failure, fracture healing time, complications within 2 months after operation, and the Flynn score of elbow joint function at last follow-up were compared between the two groups. Results: All the fractures in the study group were successfully closed reduction, and 4 cases in the control group were changed to open reduction and completed the operation, the difference between the two groups was significant ( P=0.040). The operation time and intraoperative fluoroscopy times of the study group were significantly less than those of the control group ( P<0.05). All children in both groups were followed up 6-18 months with an average of 9.0 months in the study group and 9.8 months in the control group. Imaging review showed that the fractures of both groups healed, and the difference in the healing time between the two groups was not significant ( P=0.373). According to Flynn score at last follow-up, the excellent and good rate of elbow joint function was 95.2% (20/21) in the study group and 86.4% (19/22) in the control group, with no significant difference ( P=0.317). There was no complication such as infection or irritation at the end of Kirchner wire within 2 months after operation. Conclusion: For children with multi-directional unstable humeral supracondylar fractures, the use of Kirschner wires to reconstruct the medial and lateral column periosteal hinge to assist in closed reduction has the advantages of shortening operation time, reducing intraoperative fluoroscopy times, and effectively reducing the incidence of open reduction, and can achieve similar postoperative elbow joint function when compared with traditional closed reduction technique.

Arm ischemia in a 4-year-old boy with supracondylar fracture of the humerus due to constraining bands over the brachial artery.

Supracondylar humerus fractures are common in children and can compromise the brachial artery in 5% to 15% of cases. A 4-year-old boy with a left supracondylar fracture developed upper extremity ischemia after pinning of the fracture. Computed tomography angiography revealed cutoff of flow in the brachial artery. Intraoperatively, he was found to have bands tethering the artery into the fracture, obstructing the blood flow. The orthopedic pins were removed, and the constraining bands were lysed to free the artery, with reconstitution of flow confirmed by intraoperative angiography. The fracture was reduced and stabilized, and the patient recovered well with normal arterial flow on follow-up ultrasound after 3 months.

Persistent Ulnar Nerve Palsy with Cubitus Valgus Deformity Following a Surgically Treated Flexion-type Supracondylar Humeral Fracture - A Case Report.

Introduction: Supracondylar humeral fractures (SHFs) in children are mostly extension-type. SHFs have a high risk of cubitus varus deformity, while valgus deformity is rarely described. Nerve palsy can also occur during or after the injury, with most cases recovering spontaneously. Here, we present a rare case of cubitus valgus deformity after a flexion-type SHF with ulnar nerve (UN) palsy, which was successfully treated by corrective osteotomy and anterior transposition of the UN. Case Report: A 10-year-old girl had left-sided cubitus valgus deformity with persistent UN palsy 4 months after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) at another hospital. Half a year after the initial operation, corrective osteotomy of the distal humerus with neurolysis and subcutaneous anterior transposition of the UN were performed. She showed excellent recovery 14-month postoperatively and reported restored motor and sensory function with symmetrical elbow appearance. Conclusion: Surgeons usually observe the elbow angle carefully to avoid cubitus varus deformity. However, when treating a case of flexion-type SHFs, ORIF should be conducted to avoid cubitus valgus deformity, which could potentially cause UN traction as well as cosmetic dissatisfaction.

Effects of eyeshades in sleep quality and pain after surgery in school-age children with supracondylar humeral fractures.

Objective: This study aimed to explore the effects of eye masks on the sleep quality and pain of children over 5 years old with humeral supracondylar fracture after surgery. Methods: Fifty children with humeral supracondylar fracture who underwent closed reduction and percutaneous pinning (CRPP) in the Pediatric orthopaedic Department of a provincial hospital in China from February 2020 to December 2021 were selected. The children were randomly divided into the experimental group (n = 25) and the control group (n = 25). Children in the control group were given routine sleep care, and the children in the experimental group were given a sleep intervention with eye masks for three nights after surgery. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index was used to evaluate the sleep quality of the children. The Children's Pain Behaviour Scale was used to evaluate the pain of the children. Results: After three nights of receiving the eye mask intervention, the children in the experimental group had significantly lower sleep quality scores than those in the control group; the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05), and the children in the experimental group had higher sleep quality. The experimental group's pain scores were significantly lower than the control group's, and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05), and the children in the experimental group experienced less post-operative pain. Conclusions: Eye masks are a simple, safe and economical intervention, that is beneficial for improving the sleep quality and reducing pain in children over 5 years old with humeral supracondylar fracture after closed reduction and percutaneous pinning. It can be used as a reference and basis for clinical pain relief and sleep quality after surgery for supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children.