Therapeutic analysis of Herbert screw fixation for capitellar fractures via the anterior approach in adolescent patients

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to analyze the efficacy of open reduction and Herbert screw fixation for coronal fractures of the capitellum via the anterior approach in adolescents. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and imaging data of 15 adolescents with capitellar fractures who were admitted to our hospital from May 2014 to May 2019. The fracture was reduced through the cubital crease incision via the anterior approach and was internally fixated with Herbert screws. A follow-up was conducted after the operation to examine fracture healing and elbow function. The postoperative functional recovery of patients was evaluated with the Mayo Elbow Performance index (MEPI) and the Broberg-Morrey rating system. RESULTS: Patients underwent surgery 3.7 days after injury on average. Intraoperative fracture reduction was satisfactory. No vascular injury or nerve injury occurred. Bony union occurred in an average of 6 weeks after the operation. All adolescents completed a 12- to 36-month follow-up. At the last follow-up, the Mayo Elbow Performance index was considered excellent in 12 patients and good in three patients. The Broberg-Morrey score was considered excellent in 12 patients, good in two patients, and fair in one patient. CONCLUSION: Open reduction with Herbert screw fixation via the anterior approach is a feasible surgical method for the treatment of coronal fractures of the capitellum in adolescents. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, retrospective study-Level IV