Supracondylar Fractures in Adults

Background

• Fracture of the distal part of the humerus that may extend into the elbow joint
• Extra-articular fracture
• Occurs in both children (discussed separately) and in adults

Classification

Two types of injury

• Extension type - distal fragment displaced posteriorly (more common)
• Flexion type - distal fragment displaced anteriorly

Mechanism of Injury

• Fall onto outstretched hand with elbow in extension (extension type)
• Direct blow to the posterior aspect of the elbow while the elbow is flexed (flexion type)
• Flexion type may occasionally be a compound fracture