Evidence brief
Supracondylar Humerus Fractures: Classification and Treatment
Type I: undisplaced
Type II: displaced with intact posterior cortex
Type III: completely displaced
Classification guides treatment
Vascular assessment critical
Gartland classification guides supracondylar fracture management from splinting (Type I) to urgent surgical fixation (Type III).
Classic pediatric trauma topic. Type I: long arm cast. Type II: some debate - closed reduction and pinning if angulation concerning. Type III: closed reduction, percutaneous pinning. Assess: brachial artery, median/radial/ulnar nerves. Pink pulseless hand = urgent reduction. Crossing vs lateral pins debate.
Gartland JJ. Management of supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children. Surg Gynecol Obstet. 1959;109(2):145-154.
Level IV
Case series or case reports