Comparison of Metaiseau Technique with a Percutaneous K-Wire Fixation for Displaced Radial Neck Fractures in Pediatric Age Group

Abstract

Objective: To compare the Metaiseau Technique with a Percutaneous K-Wire Fixation for Displaced Radial Neck Fractures in Pediatric Age Group

Study Design: Ambi-directional cohort study

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Orthopedic Department, Children’s Hospital, Lahore from August 1^st, 2019 to February 28^th, 2021.

Materials and Methods: This was an Ambi-directional cohort study, where a prospective ESIN group was compared with the retrospective percutaneous k-wire group. Out of 35 patients, 16 were in the ESIN group while 19 were in the percutaneous k-wire group. Inclusion criteria were; markedly displaced closed radial neck fractures in children 16 years or less who were operated on within 7 days of injury at Children’s Hospital Lahore. The outcome variables were graded according to MEPS score, radiological union, and range of motion. Statistical significance was drawn using a p-value of < 0.05.

Results: The mean age of the patients was 10.4±2.4. Based on Judet classification, 22(68%) and 13(38%) had type III and type IV radial neck fractures respectively. The average postoperative follow-up time was 17.2 (6-25) months. Both groups were comparable in terms of MEPS score, ESIN and percutaneous groups had MEPS scores of 75% and 73% respectively. Both ESIN and the percutaneous k-wire group had an excellent radiological alignment in 81% and 84%, respectively. The range of motion was significantly higher in the ESIN group

Conclusion: Both closed reduction techniques achieved excellent clinical and radiological outcomes. However, the ESIN group was superior to the percutaneous k-wire group in terms of higher ROM and fewer complications.