Supracondylar Dome Osteotomy With a Posterior Triceps-splitting Approach for Acute Correction of Posttraumatic Cubital Axis Deformities in Adolescent Patients

Background:Fractures around the elbow are common in children. Their management remains challenging. Inadequate treatment often leads to malunion, causing growth disturbance or avascular necrosis. This can develop into cubital axis deformities. This study evaluated our modified supracondylar dome osteotomy technique for acute correction of posttraumatic cubital axis deformities in adolescent patients. Methods:Eighteen cases of posttraumatic cubital axis deformity that underwent acute correction through supracondylar dome osteotomy in our department between 2012 and 2019 were retrospectively evaluated. The radiologic results were measured through the carrying angle. The clinical functional outcomes were assessed using the Mayo Elbow Performance Index. Results:No neurovascular injuries occurred and there was no notable loss of muscular strength or functional deficiencies in any of the patients. Symmetrical cubital axes were achieved in all cases. All cases were consolidated in a timely matter and no malunion was observed upon consolidation. Besides 1 case of hardware damage caused by a severe fall due to heavy alcohol intoxication, there was no correction loss, no secondary displacement, and no implant-related discomfort. None of the patients were left with a limited range of motion or reduced weight-bearing capacity. An excellent level of elbow functionality was achieved in all cases, with an average Mayo Elbow Performance Index of 97.8. Conclusions:The supracondylar dome osteotomy technique showed promising results in both radiologic outcomes and clinical performance, with a low complication rate. The dome-shaped osteotomy allows simultaneous multiplanar correction of not only varus or valgus deformities but also additional extension or flexion deformities. This technique also enables translation of the distal fragment in the frontal plane, which contributes to a more balanced anatomic geometry of the distal humerus. We consider the posterior triceps-splitting approach to be a safe technique that preserves muscle strength and improves the cosmetic appearance of the surgical scar. We recommend a cast-free plate fixation to allow early movement after surgery. We believe any residual deformities that present 18 months after the initial trauma should be addressed through surgical correction before clinical symptoms become apparent to avoid the chronic manifestation of functional deficiencies.