How do you classify supracondylar fractures?
Supracondylar fractures are initially divided into two types, depending on the direction of displacement of the distal fragment:
- Flexion-type (rare) – distal fragment is displaced anteriorly.
- Extension-type (98%) – distal fragment is displaced posteriorly.
What type of fracture is a supracondylar humerus fracture?
Your child’s humerus is fractured (broken) near the elbow area, just above the joint. This is called a supracondylar (supra CON dy ler) humerus fracture. It is the most common type of elbow fracture and happens most often to children younger than 8 years old.
What type of supracondylar fracture is most common?
Supracondylar fractures usually occur as a result of a fall from height or from sports or leisure or fall on outstretched hand( FOOSH). Extension type injury (97% to 99%) is more common than flexion type(1-3%).
What is a supracondylar elbow fracture?
A supracondylar fracture is a type of elbow fracture common in young children. The location and cause of the fracture determine the type. A supracondylar fracture is a fracture in the upper arm just above the elbow joint. It is common but it can become dangerous if not treated properly.
How do you identify the subtle supracondylar fracture of the humerus?
There are two useful techniques for identifying subtle or minimally displaced fractures:
- anterior humeral line. draw a line down the anterior surface of the humerus. it should intersect the middle third of the capitellum.
- elbow joint effusion. look for evidence of a posterior fat pad.
What type of splint is used for supracondylar fracture?
Type I supracondylar fractures are stable fractures to the elbow that are treated conservatively across the world and typically heal very well without complications. There are several treatment options, including an above elbow cast or long arm splint.
Why is supracondylar fracture common?
Overview. A supracondylar fracture is an injury to the humerus, or upper arm bone, at its narrowest point, just above the elbow. Supracondylar fractures are the most common type of upper arm injury in children. They are frequently caused by a fall on an outstretched elbow or a direct blow to the elbow.
Why are supracondylar fractures common?
What causes a supracondylar fracture?
A supracondylar fracture is an injury to the humerus, or upper arm bone, at its narrowest point, just above the elbow. Supracondylar fractures are the most common type of upper arm injury in children. They are frequently caused by a fall on an outstretched elbow or a direct blow to the elbow.
What is a Type 2 supracondylar humerus fracture?
Type 2 – angulation present but a posterior bony hinge remains intact. Type 3 – complete displacement with no bony hinge. Periosteum is usually intact. Type 4 – a controversial category describing a fracture that is unstable in flexion and extension, implying a lack of intact periosteum.
How do you know if you have a supracondylar fracture?
Although in many cases the fracture is easily seen, in some instances all that may be seen is soft tissue swelling or an anterior fat pad sign. Even in the absence of an obvious fracture, the patient needs to be treated with a cast.