Preliminary fracture reduction in children with type III supracondylar humerus fractures during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the time elapsed from injury to definitive surgery necessitated delay in type III pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures. Preliminary fracture reduction was recommended in these fractures while waiting for operative treatment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether preliminary reduction afforded a better treatment experience and improved outcomes. A retrospective cohort analysis of 161 type III supracondylar humerus fractures compared treatment with preliminary closed fracture reduction and delayed percutaneous pin placement (110 children) to delayed combined closed reduction and pin placement (51 children) in a children’s medical center. Of the preliminary reduction group, 22 (20%) required analgesic pain relief, compared to 18 (35%) in the non-preliminary reduction group (P = 0.037), and the preliminary reduction group had statistically less pain (assessed using the Faces Pain Scale-Revised rating) the first night after injury and the first-night post-CRPP (P = 0.019, P = 0.008). Cast splitting was more frequent in the non-preliminary reduction group, 11 patients (22%) than in the preliminary reduction group, 10 patients (9%; P = 0.029). The operative times in the preliminary reduction group were shorter (P < 0.001). If delay is necessary for complete repair of type III supracondylar humerus fractures, a preliminary fracture reduction with a temporary cast can be recommended, as these children will experience a more comfortable interval, with less swelling and pain, and potentially a shorter operation. Level of Evidence: Level III—therapeutic study.