Iatrogenic Ulnar Nerve Injury After Surgical Fixation for Supracondylar Humerus Fracture in Children

This case report examines the occurrence and management of iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury following surgical fixation of a supracondylar humerus fracture in a pediatric patient. Despite the rarity of such injuries, their incidence increases with crossed K -wire fixation. The report details a 7 -year -old boy who developed ulnar nerve dysfunction, presenting with claw hand and sensory deficits, one month post -surgery. Initial conservative treatment with K -wire removal failed, leading to surgical exploration which revealed nerve entrapment in fibrous tissue. Post -surgical outcomes showed significant improvement in sensory and motor functions. The discussion emphasizes the importance of minimizing medial pinning, using a mini -open approach when necessary, and the necessity for prompt identification and treatment of nerve injuries to prevent permanent damage.