Publication:

A study on outcome of various K-wire fixations in paediatric supracondylar humerus fractures

Background The ideal pin geometry for treatment of paediatric supracondylar humerus fracture is still debated. Various studies have been carried out comparing medial-lateral pinning (MLP) and lateral only pinning (LOP), but none have compared all three individually i.e. MLP, lateral divergent pinning and Lateral Trans olecranon fossa four cortex purchase pinning (TOF-FCP). This study aims to compare the cosmetic and functional outcome of these three pinning methods.

Methods 54 children with supracondylar humerus (Gartland type 2 or 3) meeting inclusion criteria were treated operatively and followed up till 6 months postoperatively. At 6 months the cosmetic and functional outcomes were assessed using the modified Flynn criteria.

Results All fractures united within 3 to 6 weeks duration. The mean duration of fracture union was 4.05 weeks. Functional outcome was satisfactory (i.e. excellent or good) at 6 months according to Flynn criteria in 95% of cases in cross pinning, 100% cases in TOF-FCP construct and 89% cases in lateral entry divergent pinning. cosmetic outcome was satisfactory (i.e. excellent or good) at 6 months according to Flynn criteria in 95% of cases in cross pinning, 100% cases in TOF-FCP construct and 89% cases in lateral entry divergent.

Conclusions Functional and cosmetic outcome of all three pinning geometries after operative intervention of paediatric supracondylar humerus fracture is similar in expert hands. The incidence of complications with TOF-FCP construct is less amongst the lateral only pinning.