Abstract

Objective: To determine the effectiveness of percutaneous pinning vs open reduction K wire fixation in Gartland type III supracondylar humerus fracture in children.
Methodology: This study was randomized control trial conducted at department of orthopedic, Pir Abdul Qadir Jeelani Institute of Medical Sciences, Gambat, Khairpur, Sindh. Forty patients were included in each percutaneous pinning group and open reduction group. Both groups were evaluated for improvement in function and radiologically for fracture union.
Results: In percutaneous pinning group, excellent functional outcome was observed in 32 (80%) children, good functional outcome in 6 (15%) while in 2 (5%) children fair functional outcome were observed. In open reduction group, excellent functional outcome was observed in 26 (65%) children, good functional outcome in 9 (22.5%), fair in 3 (7.5%), while in 2 (5%) children poor functional outcome were observed (p>0.05).
Conclusion: Percutaneous pinning should be preferred as it is more effective and safe procedure as compared to open reduction with K wire fixation for the therapy of Gartland type III supracondyler fractures of humerus in children. It has minimal visible surgical scars and other complications.

Key words: Percutaneous pinning, open reduction, K wire fixation.