Skeletal Traction and Delayed Percutaneous Fixation of Complicated Supracondylar Humerus Fractures due to Delayed or Unsuccessful Reductions and Extensive Swelling in Children

Abstract

The functional and radiological results of 13 supracondylar humerus fractures of 13 children were evaluated to determine the efficiency of delayed percutaneous fixation of the fractures after a period of skeletal overhead traction. All the fractures were complicated by delayed reduction, extensive swelling or unsuccessful reduction manipulations. As the unfavourable preexisting factors subsided under skeletal traction, anatomical reduction and fixation of fractures by percutaneous pinning were performed under general anesthesia. The average follow-up period was 21 months. Bauman and lateral capitellohumeral angles were measured and statistically analyzed. Functional and cosmetic results were evaluated by physical examination of the elbows. There were 11 excellent and two fair functional results while all cosmetic results were excellent or good. As a result, skeletal traction and delayed percutaneous pinning is accepted as an alternative method of treatment for complicated supracondylar humerus fractures in children.