A Comparison of Monteggia Fractures in Children and Adults / 대한정형외과학회잡지

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study compares the mechanism of injury and the treatment outcomes in children and adults with Monteggia fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 30 patients with Monteggia fractures were treated. There were 14 children with an average age of 8.6 years and 16 adults with an average age of 36.2 years. The results are based on a review of the clinical records and the initial radiographs combined with a follow-up examination. RESULTS: Pediatric Monteggia fractures were almost always found to be the result of low energy trauma (86%), but in adults, these fractures were most often found to be result of high energy trauma (88%). There were high prevalence of type III fractures with concomitant posterior interosseous nerve injury in the children. There were 7 serious complications in the adults. CONCLUSION: The clinical outcomes of Monteggia fracture in children were satisfactory as compared to that in adults. Yet, we recommend cautiously diagnosing and treating this injury in children because most type III fractures were accompanied by posterior interosseous nerve injury.