A Modified Surgical Technique: Lateral Crossed Tensioned K-Wires Combined with External Fixation for Supracondylar Humeral Fractures in School-Aged Children

Huanye ZhuMengyao WangChao GaoHuajiang ZhengJIn Cao^*

• Ningbo No.6 Hospital, Ningbo, China

Objective: This study evaluates the clinical efficacy of a modified surgical technique—lateral crossed tensioned Kirschner wires (K-wires) combined with external fixation—for treating supracondylar humeral fractures in school-aged children. Methods: Between April 2022 and April 2023, 45 school-aged children (6-13 years old) with supracondylar humeral fractures were retrospectively included in this study. A modified surgical technique involving lateral crossed tensioned K-wires combined with external fixation was employed to facilitate early functional recovery without the need for plaster immobilization. Postoperative follow-up included radiographic evaluation, assessment of elbow joint functional recovery, and patient satisfaction surveys. Results: All patients were followed up for 6 to 18 months. Five patients developed pin site infections, which were successfully managed with routine care. No cases of nonunion, K-wire migration, or dislocation were observed. Based on the Flynn score, 93.3% of patients achieved excellent elbow joint function at 1 month postoperatively, increasing to 97.8% at 3 months and remaining stable at 6 months. No instances of elbow varus deformity were observed during follow-up. Patients and their families reported high satisfaction levels and recommended this technique for similar fractures in other children. Conclusions: The use of lateral crossed tensioned K-wires combined with external fixation for supracondylar humeral fractures in children yields satisfactory results, promotes early functional recovery of the elbow joint, facilitates a quicker return of school activities, and improves patient satisfaction. This technique is a viable alternative for managing supracondylar humeral fractures in school-aged children.