Pediatric elbow fractures represent a significant portion of orthopedic injuries in children, encompassing a wide variety of fracture types that differ in incidence, mechanism, and management. Due to the unique anatomical and developmental features of the pediatric elbow, including multiple ossification centers and reduced remodeling potential compared to other upper extremity regions, these injuries require specialized assessment and treatment strategies. Supracondylar humerus fractures are the most common, followed by lateral condyle, medial epicondyle, olecranon, and radial head/neck fractures, with elbow fracture-dislocations being less frequent but more complex. Epidemiological patterns vary with age, sex, seasonality, and activity level, influencing both the likelihood and nature of injury. Diagnostic imaging, particularly plain radiographs, plays a central role, though advanced modalities may be required for complex presentations. Management ranges from conservative approaches with immobilization to surgical interventions such as closed reduction with percutaneous pinning or open reduction and internal fixation, depending on fracture type and displacement. Rehabilitation protocols focus on early mobilization to restore range of motion and facilitate return to activities. Outcomes are generally favorable with timely, appropriate management, though complications such as stiffness, malunion, or growth disturbance may occur, especially in more severe injuries. Understanding injury-specific characteristics is essential for optimizing pediatric elbow fracture care.

错误:搜索内容不能为空,请输入英文关键词
错误:关键词超出字数限制,请精简
高级检索

Pediatric Elbow Fractures

  • Ahmed A. Alghamdi,
  • Waleed Kishta

摘要

Pediatric elbow fractures represent a significant portion of orthopedic injuries in children, encompassing a wide variety of fracture types that differ in incidence, mechanism, and management. Due to the unique anatomical and developmental features of the pediatric elbow, including multiple ossification centers and reduced remodeling potential compared to other upper extremity regions, these injuries require specialized assessment and treatment strategies. Supracondylar humerus fractures are the most common, followed by lateral condyle, medial epicondyle, olecranon, and radial head/neck fractures, with elbow fracture-dislocations being less frequent but more complex. Epidemiological patterns vary with age, sex, seasonality, and activity level, influencing both the likelihood and nature of injury. Diagnostic imaging, particularly plain radiographs, plays a central role, though advanced modalities may be required for complex presentations. Management ranges from conservative approaches with immobilization to surgical interventions such as closed reduction with percutaneous pinning or open reduction and internal fixation, depending on fracture type and displacement. Rehabilitation protocols focus on early mobilization to restore range of motion and facilitate return to activities. Outcomes are generally favorable with timely, appropriate management, though complications such as stiffness, malunion, or growth disturbance may occur, especially in more severe injuries. Understanding injury-specific characteristics is essential for optimizing pediatric elbow fracture care.