Complications of pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures.
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.
Resident, Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland.
Carissa L
CL
Meyer
Scott H
SH
Kozin
Martin J
MJ
Herman
Shannon
S
Safier
Joshua M
JM
Abzug
D002648:Child; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D006810:Humeral Fractures / Q000601:surgery*; D011183:Postoperative Complications