ABSTRACT
We performed a clinical-radiological audit of 142 children with consecutive upracondylar fractures of the humerus over a period of 5 years (1996-2001). The fractures were classified according to the Gartland system; 58 types I, 44 type II and 40 type III. And 87.0% were extension and 13.0% flexion types. These cases were managed by closed reduction and posterior cast application (n= 120) and open reduction with internal fixation (n=22). All the stable fractures irrespectable of types were managed by closed method and all the unstable or failed manipulation cases were operated upon. In total 38 required re manipulation in the cast group and twelve (n= 12) had a varus deformity (ten from closed group and two from operation group). Failure to follow the treatment according to the guidelines led to an unsatisfactory result in 12 patients. We have devised a protocol for the management of these difficult injuries in our setup for optimal outcome.
