Abstract

Aim : The aim of this study is to compare the commonly used cross pinning and lateral pinning techniques in the surgical treatment of pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures in terms of clinical and radiological outcomes.
Material and Methods : The study included patients who underwent surgery for Gartland type 3 supracondylar humerus fractures between 2018 and 2024. Patients were divided into two groups based on the surgical technique: lateral pinning (Group 1) and cross pinning (Group 2). All patients were followed for a minimum of 6 months. Demographic data (age, sex, side, mechanism of trauma) were recorded. Clinical evaluation was performed using Flynn’s criteria. Radiological evaluation included assessment of fracture union, Baumann’s angle and its change from 0 to 6 months, carrying angle, lateral humerocapitellar angle (LHCA), and its 0 to 6-month change. Complications and additional procedures were also recorded.
Results : There were 32 patients in Group 1 and 28 in Group 2. There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of demographic characteristics. According to Flynn’s criteria, in Group 1, 24 patients had excellent, 5 had good, 3 had fair, and none had poor outcomes. In Group 2, 20 patients had excellent, 7 had good, 1 had fair, and none had poor outcomes. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of Baumann’s angle and its change, carrying angle, LHCA and its change. Ulnar nerve injury developed in 2 patients in Group 2 and resolved with conservative follow-up.
Conslusion : Both lateral pinning and cross pinning techniques provide similar clinical and radiological outcomes in the treatment of pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures. To prevent ulnar nerve palsy in the cross pinning technique, a mini medial incision can be used to protect the ulnar nerve.

Key words: Keywords : Gartland, pediatric, pinning, supracondylar