Abstract

Various surgical techniques have been used to treat displaced radial neck fractures in children, in order to reduce the displacement and to avoid complications. We report the results of a retrospective study performed on 20 patients with severely displaced radial neck fractures, who were treated with intramedullary pinning (Métaizeau technique). Mean age at injury was 9 years. Clinical and radiographic evaluation was performed. At final follow-up, there were 17 (85%) excellent or good results, 1 (5%) fair and 2 (10%) poor. Complications noted were anterior epiphysiodesis in one case and avascular necrosis of the radial head in another. Heterotopic ossification, neurovascular deficit or deep infection were noted in no instance.