Vascular complications of supracondylar humeral fractures in children.

The purpose of this study was to analyze the vascular complications of 24 children with supracondylar humeral fractures treated in two affiliated hospitals and to propose a management plan. Exploration and repair of the brachial artery were undertaken in 11 of the 24 cases in which the pulse did not resume following reduction of the fracture. The repaired vessels were found to be patent on follow-up. Angiography was performed in six of the 24 cases and resulted in improved management in comparison with cases in which no angiography was performed. We believe that intra-operative angiography and vascular repair are indicated in most cases in which a palpable pulse does not resume after fracture reduction.