Elbow Injuries - Supracondylar Fracture Flexion

Authors: Melody Glenn, MD, Andrew Little, DO, Mary Haas, MD
Updated: 12/12/2016

Elbow Injuries: Supracondylar Fracture Flexion

Types 1 through 3 supracondylar flexion fractures

X-ray Views

Elbow: AP and lateral. Forearm: AP and lateral.

Acute Management

Long arm posterior splint in position of comfort.

Follow-up Timing

Type I: Orthopedic follow up in ≤7 days Displaced fracture: Consult orthopedicsurgeon to discuss, because no evidence on best treatment plan for adults and children (closed reduction plus immobilization vs operative).

Notes

Classifications

  • Type I: Non-displaced.
  • Type II: Displaced with intact anterior cortex.
  • Type III: Complete displacement (both anterior and posterior cortex).

Flexion type (compared to extension) more likely to need operative repair in children.

Complications: Ulnar nerve entrapment and injury.

Less common overall, more common in adults.

References