Publication:

Type-III supracondylar humerus fracture: functional outcome of open reduction and internal fixation after failed closed reduction

Background To evaluate results of open reduction and internal fixation with Criss cross k-wires after failed closed reduction in Gartland type III Supracondylar fracture of humerus in our institution.

Methods This prospective study was conducted at the Krishna Rajendra hospital affiliated to the orthopaedic department of Mysore medical college and research institute from December 2018 to December 2019. Twenty-five patients of type-III fracture of supracondylar humerus were included within the study. Consent was obtained from all patients. Under anaesthesia, closed reduction was attempted first. When 2-3 attempts of closed reduction failed, an open reduction and internal fixation with cross k-wires was performed. Fortnightly follow up was applied for the first 8 weeks then monthly for the next 4 months. The clinical outcome was evaluated using Flynn criteria.

Results Out of 25 patients, 16 were male and 9 were female. Left side was involved in 17 patients and right side in 8. Mean age was 6.9 years with age range from 3 to 12 years. Excellent or good results were obtained in 23 (92%) patients and fair or poor in 2 (8%).

Conclusions We conclude that these fractures must be managed aggressively, by a specialised surgeon. Open reduction and internal fixation of severely displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus is a safe and effective method when a satisfactory reduction can't be obtained by 2-3 attempts on closed method.