New developments in the treatment of pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures (I)
Keywords:
supracondylar humerus fracture, pediatric elbow injuries, treatmentAbstract
Supracondylar humerus fractures in children are one of the most common conditions in pediatric traumatology and one of the most controversial regarding their management. The authors compiled several novel articles on the topic from the last five years to identify the scientific evidence and practical usefulness in the management of supracondylar humerus fractures. The results of six studies were included, providing important contributions to the classification and treatment of these injuries: they proposed the optimal pin configuration to ensure stable fixation while minimizing the likelihood of ulnar nerve injury. Conservative treatment of Gartland type III supracondylar humerus fractures generally results in poor functional outcomes. Type IV fractures are identified on radiographs when a large displacement is observed in the coronal plane, but not in the sagittal plane. The three-pin 2.0 mm cross-pin configuration is the most stable and should be used for Gartland type III supracondylar humerus fractures with a high oblique line and when the internal rotation stress test shows medial column displacement. The medial pin is placed through a minimally invasive approach.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Armando Pita Gonzalez
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