Publication:

Comparison of the radiographic and functional outcome in pediatric orthopaedic patients with Gartland type II supracondylar fracture treated by operative versus non operative management

Background The non-operative method of closed reduction and application of long arm posterior splint and the operative method of closed reduction and percutaneous pinning are both putative management for Gartland II supracondylar fracture. The purpose of this study is to compare which method is superior in the management of this type of fracture thru the comparison of the radiographic as well as the functional outcome.

Methods This study includes 51 pediatric patients undergoing supracondylar fracture treatment. The enrolled participants were randomly allocated to one of the two groups to receive either non operative or operative treatment. Radiographic and functional outcome was assessed post treatment.

Results The operative group exhibited significant superiority versus the non operative group as reflected by the results of the post-treatment radiographs utilizing the anterior humeral line while the Baumann’s angle showed no significant difference between the two groups. Moreover, the operative group demonstrated a better Mayo elbow performance score total per follow up, only in the first 3 months but showed no significant difference thereafter.

Conclusions We therefore conclude that non operative and operative management are both effective treatment for Gartland II supracondylar fracture. The operative group showed significant superiority with results of the anterior humeral line falling mostly at the central one-third of the capitellum. The operative group manifested a better Mayo elbow performance score total only during the first 3 months of follow up.