Comparison of Acute Complications after Early Versus Delayed Surgical Treatment of Pediatric Elbow Supracondylar Fractures

Abstract

Background: Pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures can be associated with infectious, vascular, and neurological complications. There is debate about emergency or elective treatment methods of this fracture. The aim of this study was to evaluate the passing of time in the treatment of pediatric elbow supracondylar fractures. Methods: In this study, 60 patients underwent early surgery (before 8 hours) and 60 patients with delayed arrival underwent delayed treatment (after 8 hours). After data collection by observation and checklist they were analyzed by means of SPSS software and X2, Fisher’s exact test, t-test, and Mann-Whitney statistical test. P values of > 0.05 were considered significant. Findings: There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding neurovascular injury, infection, myositis ossificans, and varus deformity. Moreover, there was no compartment syndrome in the two groups (P > 0.05). Conclusion: We were unable to identify any significant differences regarding complications such as neurovascular injury, infection, myositis ossificans, and varus deformity between early and delayed treatment groups of pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures. Therefore, the choice between early or delayed operative treatment depends on the surgeon’s preference and judgment.

Keywords

• Supracondylar humeral Fracture
• Early treatment
• Delayed treatment