Supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children

Abstract

The supracondylar fractures of the humerus are the commonest type of elbow fractures in children. They occur in either extension or flexion pattern. Both patterns have three types distinguished by degree of displacement. This article deals with anatomy and embriology of the distal part of the humerus, reviews the symptoms, outlines treatment principles and describes the general accepted methods of treatment and the treatment complications of supracondylar fractures.