A modified surgical technique: lateral crossed-tensioned K-wires combined with external fixation for supracondylar humeral fractures in school-aged children.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the clinical efficacy of a modified surgical technique-lateral crossed-tensioned Kirschner wires (K-wires) combined with external fixation-for treating supracondylar humeral fractures in school-aged children.

METHODS

Between April 2022 and April 2023, 45 school-aged children (ages 6-13) with supracondylar humeral fractures were retrospectively included in this study. The modified surgical technique involving lateral crossed-tensioned K-wires combined with external fixation was employed to facilitate early functional recovery without the need for plaster immobilization. The postoperative follow-up included a radiographic evaluation, assessment of elbow joint functional recovery, and patient satisfaction surveys.

RESULTS

All the patients were followed up for 6-18 months. Five patients developed pin site infections, which were successfully managed with routine care. No cases of non-union, K-wire migration, or dislocation were observed. Based on their Flynn scores, 93.3% of the patients achieved excellent elbow joint function at 1 month postoperatively, increasing to 97.8% at 3 months and remaining stable at 6 months. No instances of elbow varus deformity were observed during follow-up. The patients and their families reported high satisfaction levels and recommended this technique for similar fractures in other children.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of lateral crossed-tensioned K-wires combined with external fixation for supracondylar humeral fractures in children yields satisfactory results, promotes early functional recovery of the elbow joint, facilitates a quicker return to school activities, and improves patient satisfaction. This technique is a viable alternative for managing supracondylar humeral fractures in school-aged children.