Comparison of Upper Elbow Cast and Splint in Type II Supracondylar Humerus Fractures in Pediatric Patients

Abstract

Aim: Most of the childhood elbow area fractures constitute supracondylar humerus fractures. The treatment approach in Gartland typeII fractures is controversial. The purpose of our study was to compare the effectiveness of cast and splint in conservative treatment oftype II supracondylar humerus fractures.Methods: Sixty-nine pediatric patients admitted to our clinic due to gartland type II supracondylar humerus fractures between 2015and 2020 were retrospectively evaluated. Closed reduction upper-elbow cast was applied to 26 patients, and closed reduction upperelbowsplint treatment was applied to 43 patients. Radiological results of the patients were compared.Results: The mean age of the patients participating in the study was 4.86±2.61. Forty-two of 69 patients were male and 27 werefemale. Neurovascular deficit and compartment syndrome were not observed in any of the patients. When compared radiologically, nosignificant difference was found between the two groups.Conclusion: Type II supracondylar humerus fractures, where conservative treatment is planned, the upper elbow casting or splintselected for immobilization shows similar effectiveness in protecting reduction.