Evaluating the Effectiveness of Divergent Versus Crossed Kirschner Wire Techniques in Managing Pediatric Misaligned Fractures Above the Elbow (Supracondylar) in the Humerus

Adeel Habbib; Ejaz Ashraf  Mallhi; Ali Ejaz Mallhi; Nisar Ahmed

doi:10.51253/pafmj.v75i4.12076

Authors

Adeel Habbib Department of Orthopeadic, Combined Military Hospital Peshawar /National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS) Pakistan
Ejaz Ashraf Mallhi Department of Orthopeadic, Combined Military Hospital Peshawar /National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS) Pakistan
Ali Ejaz Mallhi Department of Orthopeadic, Combined Military Hospital Kharian Medical College /National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS) Pakistan
Nisar Ahmed Department of Orthopeadic, Combined Military Hospital Kharian Medical College /National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS) Pakistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51253/pafmj.v75i4.12076

Keywords:

Crossed fixation, Kirschner wire, Lateral fixation, Paediatric orthopaedics, Supracondylar humerus fractures

Abstract

Objectives: To compare the effectiveness of lateral and crossed K-wire techniques in treating misaligned supracondylar humerus fractures in children, focusing on functional outcomes and complications.

Study Design: Quasi-experimental study.

Place and Duration of Study: Combined Military Hospital (CMH), Peshawar, Pakistan, from Dec 2019 to Mar 2024.

Methodology: We randomized the participants into Group A, using lateral K-wire fixation (n=58) and Group B, using crossed K-wire fixation (n=65), to compare the efficacy of the two fixation techniques in managing Type III fractures, with outcomes evaluated based on Flynn's Criteria, carrying angle, Baumann's Angle, and time to radiological union. All data was collected systematically and analysed using SPSS version 23.0 to ensure robust statistical evaluation and integrity of the results.

Results: Loss of carrying angle showed no statistically significant difference between the groups while mean loss of Baumann Angle was highest in Group B (3.99±1.01) as compared to Group A (2.48±1.73) with statistically significant difference (p-value < 0.001).

Conclusion: Both lateral and crossed K-wire techniques effectively treat displaced supracondylar humerus fractures in children, showing similar outcomes and low complication rates.

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