Open Treatment of Supracondylar Humerus Fractures

Abstract

Supracondylar humerus fractures are one of the most common pediatric orthopedic injuries and make up 50–70% of children’s fractures about the elbow. The majority of these fractures can be treated with closed manipulation and casting or percutaneous pin fixation. Occasionally, these fractures need to be treated by open means. The indications, timing, need, and approach to open treatment of these injuries are not always straightforward. Typical indications for open treatment include an irreducible fracture, an open fracture, a vascular injury, or a nerve injury following reduction. This case highlights the management strategies for a 6-year-old with a type III supracondylar humerus fracture and associated vascular injury.