Displaced Supracondylar Humeral Fractures In Children- Treatment Outcomes Following Closed Reduction And Percutaneous Pinning

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of the study was to know the treatment outcomes following fixation of displaced supracondylar fractures by closed reduction and percutaneous pinning.MethodsA prospective study based on 30 cases with type III Gartland fracture managed by crossed percutaneous pinning was conducted at our institute over a period of two years. 20 (67%) children were males and 10(33%) were females from an age of 2 to 13 years with a mean age of 7.06 years. The patients were followed till an average period of 24 weeks. Patients were assessed both radiologically for union and functionally using Flynn’s criteria.ResultsUsing Flynn’s criterion, 97% of our cases had a satisfactory result with only one case with a poor result. Special emphasis was also given to assessment of Baumann’s angle at the time of post reduction and post union and the results compared using Pearsons correlation which was found to be significantConclusionThe results obtained following percutaneous pinning showed that this method is safe, effective, with good functional and cosmetic results and more convenient for the patient with a shorter hospital stay. A modification of Flynn’s criteria is also suggested.