Combination of ipsilateral supracondylar humeral- and forearm fractures in children - Diagnostic, therapy and results

In an 11-year period, from 01. 08. 1987 to 31. 08.1998, a total of 72 children (mean age 7.6 years, range 2-12 years) with dislocated supracondylar humeral fractures were treated surgically in the Departement for Traumatology, University Hospital, Essen. The combination of supracondylar humeral fracture and ipsilateral forearm fracture occurred in 8 children (11.1 %). 4 revealed a complete forearm fracture in the distal third, 4 children a fracture of the distal physis (Salter-Harris type II). The supracondylar humeral fractures were reduced openly via a single lateral approach and stabilized by crossed K-wire fixation. The distal forearm fractures were treated by closed reduction and percutaneous pinning. Fractures of the distal physis were treated by closed reduction and application of an above elbow cast. Excellent results were achieved in all children with ipsilateral supracondylar and forearm fractures.