Open reduction and internal fixation by hollow screw for capitellum fractures in children

Background: To evaluate the clinical outcome of capitellum fractures in children treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) by hollow screw. Methods Five children with capitellum fractures, aged 10–14 years, average age = 12.2 years, who were admitted to our hospital between January 2018 and June 2021, were included in this study. All patients underwent ORIF using compressive hollow screws inserted in a posterior-to-anterior direction. The Broberg-Morrey elbow function score was used to evaluate the outcome during the follow-up. Results The mean follow-up period was 11.8 (9–18) months. The mean Elbow Performance Index score was 97 (range 85–100), and the scores were excellent in four cases and general in one case. All patients achieved anatomic bone union and good elbow flexion and extension functions, no patient developed vascular and nerve injury, infection or avascular necrosis. Conclusion In the treatment of children with capitellum fractures, the lateral approach of open reduction and hollow-screw posterior-to-anterior internal fixation has a good effect.