A PROSPECTIVE CASE STUDY OF SURGICAL TREATMENT OF SUPRACONDYLAR FRACTURES OF THE HUMERUS IN CHIDREN BY CLOSED CLOSED REDUCTION AND PERCUTANEOUS FIXATION WITH KIRSCHNER WIRES

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To assess the ability of closed reduction and percutaneous K-wire fixation, to obtain and maintain an adequate reduction, and thereby achieve satisfactory end results.

METHODS: A prospective study conducted on forty displaced extension type Gartland type-III of supracondylar fractures of the humerus in childrens treated by closed reduction and percutaneous cross-fixation with kirschner wires under image intensifier control between august 2012 to july 2014 at Vijayanagara Institute of Medical Sciences, Bellary.

RESULTS: There was no problem in union. Patients were graded by Flynn's criteria with excellent results in 60%, good in 20%, and fair in 15%, and poor in 5% cases. Only two patient had developed cubitus varus deformity and four had Iatrogenic Ulnar nerve palsy from medial pin, which recovered subsequently. The Baumann's angle was well with in the normal range of 66-84 degrees.

CONCLUSION: Percutaneous K-wire fixation is a safe and effective method for the management of Gartland type-III supracondylar fractures with minimal hospital stay and without risking vascular compromise.

Key words: Supracondylar fractures, closed reduction, Crossed-pin fixation