Pediatric and Adolescent T-type Distal Humerus Fractures

Charles A. Popkin, Katherine A. Rosenwasser, Henry B. Ellis

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

8 Scopus citations

Abstract

Although fractures of the elbow are extremely common in pediatric patients, the T-type distal humerus fracture is rare and offers unique challenges. The mechanism of injury may be similar to the adult counterpart and is usually caused by a fall onto a flexed elbow or from a direct blow. Diagnosing these injuries may be difficult. They often resemble extension-type supracondylar fractures, yet the treatment algorithm is quite different. In younger patients, percutaneous pinning remains a viable option, but for older adolescents, open reduction and internal fixation provides stable fixation at the elbow and the most reliable restoration of the articular surface. Appropriate imaging, careful radiographic diagnosis, and choice of surgical technique are of paramount importance when treating young patients with this injury. Most pediatric and adolescent patients with T-type distal humerus fractures have results better than those of adults but often worse than other elbow fractures in this age group.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article numbere040
JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Global Research and Reviews
Volume1
Issue number8
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 1 2017

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery
  • Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

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