Outcome of open reduction and Kirschner wire fixation in pediatric radial neck fracture

BACKGROUND: Radial neck fracture in children is rare. This study attempted to evaluate the outcome of surgically treated patients and any associated complications. METHODS: This study evaluated 23 children under 15 years of age with radial neck fracture who were treated with open reduction between 2006 and 2016 to determine their range of motion, postoperative complications, and radiographic outcomes. The results were assessed clinically using the Mayo clinic elbow performance score. RESULTS: The mean follow-up duration for patients was 34.6 months. The average postoperative angulation was 3.6º. Hypoesthesia was reported in only 9% of patients, and none of the patients complained of postoperative pain. The postoperative X-ray results were excellent in 60% and good in 40%. No radiographic complications were identified. The elbow score was excellent in 87% and good in 13% (mean score, 96.74). There was a statistical relationship between range of motion limitations and age, degree of fracture, initial displacement, and surgical pin removal time. CONCLUSIONS: Although most patients accept the closed reduction method as a primary treatment, the present study suggests that an open-reduction approach has been associated with optimal therapeutic outcomes for patients in whom closed reduction was not satisfactory or indicated.