Epiphyseal separation of the trochlea due to stress-throwing injury in a pediatric baseball player: A case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Distal humeral epiphyseal separation (DHES) is rare and sometimes difficult to diagnose by radiography. This report presents a rare case of an 8-year-old male baseball player with epiphyseal separation of the trochlea caused by a stress-throwing injury. The patient sustained an elbow injury after throwing a ball. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging confirmed epiphyseal separation of the trochlea and avulsion fracture of the capitellum. Open surgery was performed using 1.5 mm diameter K-wires. After 5 weeks of immobilization, an active range of motion was allowed. Bone union was achieved 4 months after surgery. The patient returned to baseball without pain. Open surgery may be a suitable treatment option for DHES as children grow.