@article{ref1,
title="Low incidence of flexion-type supracondylar humerus fractures but high rate of complications",
journal="Acta orthopaedica",
year="2016",
author="Kuoppala, Eira and Parviainen, Roope and Pokka, Tytti and Sirviö, Minna and Serlo, Willy and Sinikumpu, Juha-Jaakko",
volume="87",
number="4",
pages="406-411",
abstract="Background and purpose - Supracondylar humerus fractures are the most common type of elbow fracture in children. A small proportion of them are flexion-type fractures. We analyzed their current incidence, injury history, clinical and radiographic findings, treatment, and outcomes. Patients and methods - We performed a population-based study, including all children <16 years of age. Radiographs were re-analyzed to include only flexion-type supracondylar fractures. Medical records were reviewed and outcomes were evaluated at a mean of 9 years after the injury. In addition, we performed a systematic literature review of all papers published on the topic since 1990 and compared the results with the findings of the current study. <br><br>RESULTS - During the study period, the rate of flexion-type fractures was 1.2% (7 out of 606 supracondylar humeral fractures). The mean annual incidence was 0.8 per 105. 4 fractures were multidirectionally unstable, according to the Gartland-Wilkins classification. All but 1 were operatively treated. Reduced range of motion, changed carrying angle, and ulnar nerve irritation were the most frequent short-term complications. Finally, in the long-term follow-up, mean carrying angle was 50% more in injured elbows (21°) than in uninjured elbows (14°). 4 patients of the 7 achieved a satisfactory long-term outcome according to Flynn's criteria. Interpretation - Supracondylar humeral flexion-type fractures are rare. They are usually severe injuries, often resulting in short-term and long-term complications regardless of the original surgical fixation used.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="1745-3674",
doi="10.1080/17453674.2016.1176825",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/17453674.2016.1176825"
}