Background: Late presentation of lateral condyle fractures (LCF) of the distal
humerus in children is not uncommon in developing countries due to variable causes. Open
reduction and fixation of displaced unstable injuries is difficult due to the need for extensive
dissection in the tissues and the newly formed callus putting blood supply of the distal
fragment at risk of injury. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of open
reduction and fixation of lately presented fractures of the lateral condyle of distal humerus
in children. Study design: a prospective study conducted in Banha university hospital from
2008 till 2014. Patients and methods: 21 children with displaced unstable lateral condylar
fractures presented more than 3 weeks after injury for medical care. Open reduction -
internal fixation was done by Kirschner wires. Patients were followed up for an average
period of one year. Results were evaluated at final follow up according to Hardacre
criteria. Conclusion: Open reduction – internal fixation of lately presented unstable
displaced lateral condyle fractures of the distal humerus in children could achieve a high
rate of union and a satisfactory clinical outcome upon preservation of the blood supply and
anatomical reduction of the distal fragment |
