Authors
Abstract
Background: Classification and treatment of lateral humeral condyle fracture in children is a matter of controversy. We report the results of treatment in 26 cases along with a comprehensive literature review.Methods: Medical records and radiographs of 26 children (8 girls, 18 boys) who had been treated for lateral humeral condyle fracture over 20 year period were reviewed. The cases had a mean age of 4.5 years (1.9-8 years). The patients were evaluated for elbow range of motion, deformity, neurological deficit, and avascular necrosis with an average follow-up of 6 (3-20) years. Results: From the 26 cases, 17 patients had less than 2 millimeters displacement, and had been treated non-operatively 8 patients with displaced fracture had received internal fixation. One case that presented late and had ulnar nerve symptom with fracture non-:::union:::, underwent only anterior transposition of the nerve. The cases had all full range of motion, with no avascular necrosis. The one non-:::union::: case had a carrying angle of 26 degrees.Conclusions: Lateral humeral condyle fracture in children requires surgical treatment more than most other pediatric fractures. Initial displacement of over 2 millimeters or any later displacement in the early post fracture period would require surgical intervention.
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