Pin fixation in treatment of dislocated lateral condyle of the humerus in pediatric population

Introduction Fractures of lateral condyle represent 17% of all pediatric fractures of the distal humerus, and in current pediatric orthopedics there is still no agreement regarding optimal treatment modalities. We presented a treatment protocol for pediatric dislocated fractures of the lateral condyle of the humerus used at the Pediatric Surgery Clinic in Novi Sad. Material and methods Over the study period (1991-2000) a total of 48 patients with dislocated fractures of the lateral condyle of the humerus were hospitalized at the Pediatric Surgery Clinic. Orthopedic reduction and percutaneous pin fixation under radiological supervision was done in 15 patients, while 33 patients needed surgical reduction and pin fixation. Results Satisfactory results were obtained in 42 patients (91.3%), out of which 29 patients (63.1%) presented with excellent resuls. Good results were obtained in 8 patients (17.4%), and fair results in 5 patients (10.8%). Unsatisfactory results were present in 4 patients (8.7%). Two patients were lost to follow-up. Discussion Dislocation fractures of the lateral condyle represent high risk for development of complications. Adequate diagnosis and treatment represent basic conditions for successful post-interventional result. Orthopedic reduction with percutaneous pin fixation is recommended for fractures that may be anatomically reduced. In cases of unsatisfactory results of reduction, as well as in cases with completely dislocated and rotated fragments, surgical reduction and pin fixation is necessary. Conclusions Satisfactory results in 91.3% of cases, and long-term experience suggest that the recommended therapeutic option is adequate in treatment of dislocated fractures of the lateral condyle of the humerus in pediatric population.