Reduction and fixation of displaced radial neck fractures by closed intramedullary pinning

Abstract

Radial neck fractures in children are serious injuries with frequent sequelae when the tilt exceeds 60 degrees. Conservative treatment is often inadequate in such cases and open reduction may produce iatrogenic complications. We report our experience with an original technique. An intramedullary wire introduced from below and projected upward allows reduction of the displacement and maintenance of the correction without infringing the joint. The operative technique is described. This method was used in 31 fractures with between 30 degrees and 80 degrees of tilt and in 16 fractures with > 80 degrees of tilt. Excellent and good functional results were obtained in 30 cases in the first group and in 11 cases in the second group.