Fractures of the medial humeral epicondyle in children.

A review of 50 children with fractures of the medial humeral epicondyle facilitated a simple classification of this injury and its management. The "apparent isolated" fracture of the medial humeral epicondyle is uncommon; it is more frequently associated with elbow dislocation, with or without spontaneous reduction, at the time of injury. Analysis of the results of treatment of medial humeral epicondylar fractures in this group of children showed that, in the case of those with an "apparent isolated" injury, treatment with a sling only gave good results in 90% whereas poorer results followed open treatment or fractures associated with dislocation. Closed treatment is therefore recommended. Open reduction is indicated only with (a) ulnar neuritis at the time of injury or (b) intra-articular fragment.