Anterior exposure for open reduction of supracondylar humeral fractures in children: a forgotten approach?

OBJECTIVE

To describe the anterior approach for open reduction of supracondylar fractures in children and to assess the morbidity and functional outcome.

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis.

SETTING

University Hospital.

SUBJECTS

Eleven consecutive children (mean age 6 years, range 4-12) with supracondylar fractures who were treated by open reduction and fixation with a Kirschner wire through an anterior approach from 1984-1990 and followed up after a mean of 9 weeks (range 5-16 weeks).

RESULTS

There was no morbidity. Full functional recovery was achieved within four months of the accident. One patient had a mild (10 degrees) varus deformity with normal function of the elbow.

CONCLUSION

Open reduction of supracondylar fractures and fixation with a Kirschner wire through an anterior approach is a logical, safe and elegant technique, which we recommend for children in whom closed reduction has failed.