Abstract
Introduction
Lateral humeral condyle fractures account for 17% of the distal humeral condyle fractures. They affect children between 5 and 10 years of age. Recent reports advocate closed reduction and internal fixation for the less displaced fractures.
Methods
We retrospectively reviewed children treated with open reduction internal fixation of these fractures at a single institution over a period of 13 years. All cases of lateral humeral condyle fractures treated with ORIF were identified through the trauma register. Case notes and radiographs were retrieved. Fracture classification, mode of fixation, time to union, and clinical examination at latest follow up were reviewed.
Results
105 lateral condyle fractures were identified. 76 (72%) in boys and 29 (28%) in girls. Average age was 6.2 years. 92 were Milch type 2 and 13 Milch type 1. According to the Jacobs classification for displacement 9 were type I, 33 Type II and 63 type III. All fractures were treated with open reduction and fixation with K-wires. Average time to union (radiologic) was 34 days. Mean follow up was 39 months. Hypertrophy of the lateral condyle in follow up radiographs was documented in 45 cases (42%). Cubitus Varus was documented in 7 cases (7%). None of the children complained of painful range of movement at latest follow up. There was one case of superficial infection of the K-wires and one case of delayed union.
Discussion
Open reduction internal fixation is the established management of lateral humeral condyle fractures. This series confirms the consistently good results of open reduction. Compared to recent reports of closed reduction internal fixation, this series demonstrates good results with no complications directly relating to the open reduction technique.
