The Frequency and Outcomes of Nerve Palsies in Operatively Treated Supracondylar Humerus Fractures.
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
9-1-2022
Identifier
DOI: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000002186
Abstract
BACKGROUND: A high index of suspicion for nerve palsy is essential in the setting of a displaced supracondylar humerus fracture (SCHF) with careful attention to the examination. We hypothesize that nerve injuries are more prevalent in higher energy type III and flexion SCHFs compared with type II fractures.
METHODS: A retrospective review was performed of 1085 operatively treated SCHFs in pediatric patients, aged 0 to 14 years, between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2018. There were 979 patients eligible for analysis. Exclusion criteria included follow-upweeks, polytrauma, pathologic fracture, and prior fracture of the ipsilateral elbow.
RESULTS: The overall rate of nerve injury was 10.6% (104/979). A significant difference in the rate of nerve palsy was identified between fracture types: 0.9% type II, 19.3% type III, and 10.7% flexion type SCHFs ( P60 minutes ( P =0.023) and the need for open reduction ( P =0.012) were significantly associated with postoperative nerve palsy. Referral to therapy was required in 30.8% of patients with a nerve palsy compared with 7.9% of patients without ( P <0.001).
CONCLUSION: Longer operative times, need for open reduction, and significantly higher rates of nerve palsy among type III and flexion SCHFs are best explained by the unstable nature of the fracture and greater degree of soft tissue trauma. Given prolonged duration of follow-up and more frequent need for therapy demonstrated in patients with a nerve palsy, these data can be used to improve counseling for families and patients after displaced SCHF.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III-retrospective comparative study.
Journal Title
Journal of pediatric orthopedics
Volume
42
Issue
8
First Page
408
Last Page
412
MeSH Keywords
Child; Humans; Humeral Fractures; Humerus; Paralysis; Retrospective Studies; Treatment Outcome; Ulnar Neuropathies
Keywords
Humeral Fractures; Humerus; Paralysis; Retrospective Studies; Treatment Outcome; Ulnar Neuropathies
Recommended Citation
Norrell KN, Muolo CE, Sherman AK, Sinclair MK. The Frequency and Outcomes of Nerve Palsies in Operatively Treated Supracondylar Humerus Fractures. J Pediatr Orthop. 2022;42(8):408-412. doi:10.1097/BPO.0000000000002186
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