Abstract
Displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children should be carefully considered in choosing treatment method because of many complications and difficulties of operative technique. We analyzed the follow up results of 94 patients treated by closed reduction and application of cast(CR), skeletal traction(57), percutaneous pinning after closed reduction(PP) and open reduction with internal fixation(OR) from Jan. 1989 to Jan. 1994. The results were as follows:
1. The mean age was 7.5 years old in both sexes, and male to female ratio was 2.5:1.
2. According to Gartland classification, type II was 23 cases, type III a was 42 cases and type III b was 29 cases.
3. Of all fractures, 31 cases were treated by CR, 7 cases by 57,47 cases by PP and 9 cases were treated by OR.
4. According to Flynn criteria, the excellent result of the treatment was 50% followed by CR,57% followed by 57, 79% followed by 57 and 63% followed by OR.
5. There was no significant difference in the mean duration of bony union regardless of fracture type and treatment modalities.
6. The mean duration of hospital stay was longest at 57 group(14 days) and shortest at PP group(4 days).
7. PP producted the best radiographic and functional results and accessibility.