Medical & Clinical Research

Author(s): Birhange Bukanja Sosthene, Bahati Badarhi Chance, Chiza Buhendwa Rock, Theophile Barhwamire Kabesha

Introduction: Fractures of the humeral paddle in children are one of the most frequent causes of emergency trauma. The aim of this study is to describe the epidemiological, clinical and therapeutic aspects of humeral paddle fractures in children followed in our department for 3 years.
Patients and Methods: Prospective study involving 15 consecutive patients followed for fracture of the humeral paddle in our department from January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2022. The sampling was exhaustive, the data were collected on a pre- established form. Sociodemographic, clinical and therapeutic parameters were studied. Lesions were classified according to the Rigault and Lagrange classification. All these patients were operated on and followed by the same surgeon with a one-year follow-up.
Results: The 5-8 year old age group predominated (66.7%); the sex ratio was 2.5 in favor of boys. Gaming accidents were the most dominant in 60%, the indirect mechanism was the most represented. All patients presented with a painful and impotent elbow. Supra-condylar fractures were the most common (60% of cases) and type II fractures were the most frequent in 53.3% of cases. The immediate complications were predominated by the absence of the radial pulse. The treatment was orthopedic in 73.3% of cases, and according to the Blount method in 72.7%. The results were satisfactory in 93.3% of cases. Elbow stiffness was the main complication (6.7%).
Conclusion: Fractures of the humeral paddle are common in children, and often occur during play. The prognosis depends on the precocity and effectiveness of treatment. Early rehabilitation helps prevent elbow stiffness. Supervision of children's games by adults remains essential to prevent these fractures.