Proximal radius fractures in children: evaluation of associated elbow fractures

Diagnosis, treatment and complications of radial head and neck fractures in the pediatric patient

Radial head and neck fractures represent up to 14% of all pediatric elbow fractures and can be a difficult challenge in the pediatric patient. In up to 39% of proximal radius fractures, there is a concomitant fracture, which can easily be overlooked on the initial standard radiographs. The treatment options for proximal radius fractures in children range from non-surgical treatment, such as immobilization alone and closed reduction followed by immobilization, to more invasive options, including closed reduction with percutaneous pinning and open reduction with internal fixation. The choice of treatment depends on the degree of angulation and displacement of the fracture and the age of the patient; an angulation of less than 30 degrees and translation of less than 50% is generally accepted, whereas a higher degree of displacement is considered an indication for surgical intervention. Fractures with limited displacement and non-surgical treatment generally result in superior outcomes in terms of patient-reported outcome measures, range of motion and complications compared to severely displaced fractures requiring surgical intervention. With proper management, good to excellent results are achieved in most cases, and long-term sequelae are rare. However, severe complications do occur, including radio-ulnar synostosis, osteonecrosis, rotational impairment, and premature physeal closure with a malformation of the radial head as a result, especially after more invasive procedures. Adequate follow-up is therefore warranted.

Radial neck fractures in children secondary to horse-riding accidents: a comparative study

INTRODUCTION

In the pediatric population, fractures of the radial neck account for approximately 1% of all fractures and can have substantial consequences. Given the growing popularity of horse riding and the high-energy traumas that this can entail, we sought to assess prognosis for radial neck fracture sustained in horse riding.

HYPOTHESIS

Radial neck fracture sustained in horse riding is more severe and more frequently associated with other ipsilateral osteoarticular lesions which worsen prognosis.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

We performed a multicenter retrospective comparative study in a continuous series of 39 patients. The inclusion criteria consisted of radius neck fracture in children under the age of 15 years. Endpoints comprised associated lesions at time of trauma, and ranges of elbow motion in pronation/supination and flexion/extension at last follow-up.

RESULTS

Compared to other etiologies, radial neck fractures following horse-riding accidents were more frequently associated with other ipsilateral osteoarticular lesions (p=0.0002), and more often required open reduction (p=0.0409) and postoperative rehabilitation (p=0.041). However, there were no significant differences in any ranges of motion at last follow-up (p>0.05).

CONCLUSION

Radial neck fractures following horse-riding accidents in children were more severe than those caused by other mechanisms. Awareness campaigns in riding clubs and development of specific protective equipment should be considered to reduce occurrence.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic III - Retrospective comparative study.