Supracondylar Fractures of Humerus—Prevention of Cubitus Varus

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Abstract
1. A comparative study of six methods of treatment in sixty-seven supracondylar fractures in children is presented. They were handled as orthopaedic emergencies, and, perhaps because of the prompt treatment, vascular complications were avoided. 2. Normal elbow motion resulted following each method of closed treatment but open reduction caused some loss in extension. 3. The seven nerve palsies recorded were transitory. 4. Myositis ossificans complicated one case following open reduction but was not otherwise observed in this series. 5. Overhead threaded pin traction was safe and the swelling of the elbow rapidly decreased as gravity hastened venous and lymphatic drainage. 6. Overhead pin traction prevented residual varus deformity possibly because it provided a position of mild pronation of the forearm. 7. Closed reduction followed by a collar and cuff also prevented residual varus deformity, possibly because of the neutral or pronated position of the forearm. 8. In our opinion the supinated position of the forearm should be avoided in the treatment of supracondylar fractures of the elbow in children.

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