Surgical treatment of displaced radial neck fractures in children with metaizeau technique: Late-term results Metaizeau technique : Late term results

Aim: in this study, we aimed to analyze the functional and radiological outcomes of displaced radial neck fractures in children treated with the Metaizeau technique . Material and Methods: This was a retrospective study, and data were collected prospectively. Thirty-eight patients with grade III and grade IV radial neck fractures according to the classification of Judet et al were managed surgically by Metaizeau technique. All patients were surgically treated with percutaneous k-wire leverage reduction and retrograde transphyseal k-wire fixation. The functional results were evaluated using the Metaizeau functional scoring system. Clinical evaluation and results were performed using the Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS), ROM of the elbow (flexion, extension) and forearm (supination, pronation) was measured with a goniometer. Complications were also evaluated. Results: The average follow-up time was 64.9 months (28 -120 months), there were no patients with nonunion, avascular necrosis, infection, posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) injury, heterotopic ossification or radioulnar synostosis. There were 31 (88.5 %) excellent or good results and 4 (11.5 %) fair results according to the Metaizeau classification. The final X-rays showed fracture healing in all patients. No patient developed complications. Discussion: Intramedullary pinning, as described by Metaizeau, is a reliable and reproducible surgical method to treat radial neck fractures in children, which provides excellent or good results and has a low risk of complications