Comparison of conservative and surgical treatment in Gartland Type IIB fractures in pediatric patients

F.L. Umur, M. Aydın, S. Surucu

Orthopedics and Traumatology, Kadikoy Acibadem Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey. mahmut_aydn@windowslive.com

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• Orthopedics

OBJECTIVE: In this study, our aim was to compare conservative treatment and surgical treatment radiologically and clinically in the treatment of pediatric Gartland type IIB SCHF, which is a controversial issue in the literature.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: This retrospective study included 86 patients with a Gartland type IIB humerus fracture. Forty-three patients were treated conservatively, and 43 patients were surgically treated. Radiological results were evaluated according to the Baumann angle and anterior humerus line. The Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and Flynn’s criteria were used to assess the functional evolution.

RESULTS: The mean MEPS was 94 for the conservative treatment group and 93 for the surgical treatment group. According to Flynn’s criteria, 31 (72.09%) excellent results were obtained in patients who were treated conservatively, and 26 (60.46%) excellent results were obtained in the surgical treatment group.

CONCLUSIONS: The conservative and surgical treatment of Gartland type IIB SCHF is not superior to each other if anatomic reduction is achieved. Complications of each treatment can be prevented by following strict treatment principles.

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