Functional outcomes in paediatric supracondylar fracture humerus treated with percutaneous pinning with cross K-wires

Background Supracondylar fracture of humerus is the most common elbow fractures in children. Percutaneous pinning is an effective modality of treatment, as it obliterates the problem of maintenance of reduction of the fracture and minimizes the risk of circulatory insufficiency. Methods 30 patients coming to the hospital during the period from November 2012 to November 2014 with closed Gartland type II and III supracondylar humerus fracture and managed with percutaneous pinning with two cross K-wires were included. Anteroposterior and lateral view X-rays of the affected as well as the normal elbow were taken and assessed regarding union, carrying angle, Baumann's angle and metaphyseal–diaphyseal angle. Flynn criteria were used for evaluation of the final functional outcome. Results The mean follow-up of the patients in this study was 6.3 months. None of the patient had a final carrying angle less than 10° and more than 16° with mean final carrying angle being 12.3°. The final functional outcome assessed according to Flynn criteria, was excellent in 83.33%, good in 3.33%, fair in 6.67% and poor in 6.67% patients. Conclusion Use of a medial entry pin for the treatment of paediatric supracondylar humerus fractures by closed reduction and percutaneous pinning using cross K-wires is safe as far as iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury and vascular complications are concerned, if an adequate technique is followed. Closed reduction and percutaneous pinning with medial and lateral cross K-wires offers a practically feasible, economically viable and an effective treatment method for displaced supracondylar fracture humerus.