Overview of the contemporary management of supracondylar humeral fractures in children

Abstract

Purpose: Supracondylar fractures are common injuries accounting for approximately 15% of all fractures in children with a large body of literature on this subject. Methods: This article critically appraises the available evidence to provide an overview of the treatment options including the role and timing of surgery, the geometry of wire fixation and the management of nerve and arterial injury. Conclusion: Management decisions are based on a number of considerations particularly fracture stability. Closed reduction and percutaneous K-wire stabilisation are commonly recommended for an unstable displaced fracture. These techniques are however associated with the potential for iatrogenic neurological injury. Vascular injury is also rare but must be recognised and treated promptly to avoid significant permanent morbidity.