Objectives: We compared open reduction-internal fixation (ORIF) and closed reduction-internal fixation (CRIF) with respect to operation and radiation exposure times in the treatment of displaced supracondylar humeral fractures in children.
Methods: This retrospective study included 124 children (76 boys, 48 girls) who underwent surgical treatment for displaced supracondylar humeral fractures (Gartland type 3). Of these, 52 patients (mean age 7.5±2.8 years) underwent ORIF, and 72 patients (mean age 6.1±2.5 years) underwent CRIF. Operation and fluoroscopy times were recorded in both groups. Final assessments included range of motion, varus- valgus angulation, neurovascular findings, and cosmetic appearance. Functional and cosmetic results were assessed using the criteria of Flynn et al. after a mean follow-up period of 49.3±18.6 months and 50.4±17.9 months in the ORIF and CRIF groups, respectively.
Results: Radiographical union was obtained in all the patients within six weeks postoperatively. The two groups did not differ with respect to functional and cosmetic results (p>0.05), with excellent-good results accounting for 90.3% in the CRIF group, and 86.6% in the ORIF group. The mean operation times were 44.2±12.6 and 28.3±8.2 minutes, and the mean fluoroscopy times were 36.0±15.3 and 11.7±4.5 seconds, in the CRIF and ORIF groups, respectively, both being significantly longer in the former (p=0.000).
Conclusion: As extended fluoroscopy use increases radiation exposure, ORIF sems to be more convenient for the treatment of displaced supracondylar humeral fractures.