Citation

Meyer CL, Kozin SH, Herman MJ, Safier S, Abzug JM. Instr. Course Lect. 2015; 64: 483-491.

Affiliation

Resident, Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2015, American Academy Of Orthopaedic Surgeons)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

25745931

Abstract

Supracondylar humeral fractures are common in the pediatric population and can result in complications caused by both the injury itself and surgical or nonsurgical treatment. Neurologic complications are frequent, with the anterior interosseous nerve being the most common nerve affected. Vascular injuries, although less common, can result in long-term sequelae and should be recognized and treated promptly. Loss of reduction can occur with both surgical and nonsurgical treatment. Compartment syndrome and infection, although rare, require rapid recognition and treatment. It is important to be familiar with the potential complications surrounding the treatment of pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures to maximize outcomes and know when a referral may be warranted.

Language: en