Ch. Imobi Singh1, R. K. Rupabati Devi2, G. Satyabarta Sharma3
There is no universal agreement regarding the management of displaced supracondylar fracture of the humerous in children. According to some orthopaedic surgeon almost all supracondylar humeral fractures should be treated operatively by reduction and pinning. While according to others closed reduction and pinning should be used for Gartland type II and some type III fractures. We present 50 cases of displaced supracondylar fracture treated by closed manipulative reduction under G.A. and immobilization with a posterior plaster of paris slab and collar and cuff.
OBJECTIVE: To assess the functional results of the injured elbow and to study the incidence of change in the carrying angle of the elbow.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective study was conducted in 50 patients with extension type of displaced supracondylar fractures of humerus in children (Gartland type II and type III) treated by closed manipulative reduction and immobilization in flexion of the elbow with a posterior plaster of paris slab and collar and cuff. Patients were followed up for 6 months. Flexion type of supracondylar fracture and those fractures which are absolutely indicated for operative intervention, Viz an open fracture and severe vascular compromise were excluded from the study. The range of movement and carrying angle was measured with the help of a Goniometer and Flynn criteria were used for functional assessment.
RESULTS: At the end of follow up period, the end results were graded as excellent in 40%, good in 42%, fair in 12% and poor in 6%. A satisfactory result was therefore obtained in 94% and unsatisfactory result in 6% of the 50 patients who were followed and evaluated.
CONCLUSION: This closed method of treatment for all practical proposes produces least complications, shorter hospital stay, can be expected to yield reproducible consistent satisfactory results not surpassed by any other method of treatment.
