Lateral Condyle Humerus Fracture Treatment in Indore

A lateral condyle humerus fracture is one of the most common elbow fractures seen in children. It usually occurs due to a fall on an outstretched hand and affects the outer part of the elbow joint. Early diagnosis and proper management are extremely important because delayed or incorrect treatment can lead to long-term complications like deformity, stiffness, or improper bone healing.

If you are looking for advanced and reliable lateral condyle humerus fracture treatment in Indore, consulting an experienced child orthopedic doctor in Indore ensures the best recovery outcomes for your child.

Understanding Lateral Condyle Humerus Fracture

The humerus is the up

per arm bone. At the elbow joint, the lower end of the humerus forms two bony prominences called condyles — the medial and lateral condyles. The lateral condyle is located on the outer side of the elbow and plays a crucial role in elbow stability and movement.

In children, this area contains a growth plate (physis), which makes it more vulnerable to fractures. Since children are active and often fall during play or sports, these fractures are relatively common in the pediatric age group (typically between 4–10 years).

Causes of Lateral Condyle Humerus Fracture

Understanding the causes helps in prevention and early action.

1. Fall on an Outstretched Hand (FOOSH Injury): The most common cause is a fall where the child tries to protect themselves by extending the arm, transmitting force to the elbow.
2. Direct Trauma to the Elbow: A direct blow to the outer part of the elbow during sports or accidental impact can cause the fracture.
3. Playground Injuries: Falls from slides, swings, monkey bars, or bicycles are frequent causes.
4. Sports Injuries: Activities like cricket, football, gymnastics, or skating may result in elbow injuries.
5. Road Traffic Accidents: Though less common in children, accidents can also lead to such fractures.

Symptoms of Lateral Condyle Humerus Fracture

Recognizing symptoms early is essential for timely treatment.

1. Pain Around the Elbow: Severe pain on the outer side of the elbow, especially when moving the arm.
2. Swelling and Tenderness: Noticeable swelling and tenderness over the lateral (outer) elbow.
3. Limited Movement: The child may refuse to move the elbow due to pain.
4. Visible Deformity: In displaced fractures, the elbow may appear misaligned.
5. Bruising: Discoloration may develop around the elbow region.
6. Crying and Irritability in Younger Children: Infants and toddlers may simply cry and avoid using the affected arm.

If your child shows these signs after a fall, immediate consultation with a qualified child orthopedic doctor in Indore is highly recommended.

Diagnosis

Proper diagnosis ensures correct treatment planning.

Clinical Examination

An experienced orthopedic surgeon in Indore will examine:

• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Range of motion
• Neurovascular status (checking blood flow and nerve function)

X-ray: Standard X-rays of the elbow are essential. Sometimes, special views are required because lateral condyle fractures may be subtle and easily missed.

Advanced Imaging (If Required): In rare cases, MRI or CT scan may be advised for complex fractures.

Types of Lateral Condyle Humerus Fractures

Treatment depends on the severity and displacement of the fracture.

1. Non-Displaced Fracture: Bone fragments remain aligned.
2. Minimally Displaced Fracture: Slight separation of bone fragments.
3. Displaced Fracture: Treatment Options for Lateral Condyle Humerus Fracture in Indore

The treatment approach depends on the fracture type, child’s age, and degree of displacement.

1. Non-Surgical Treatment (Casting)

If the fracture is non-displaced or minimally displaced:

• Application of an above-elbow cast
• Immobilization for 4–6 weeks
• Regular X-ray follow-up to ensure proper alignment

Close monitoring is critical because some fractures may shift even after casting.

2. Surgical Treatment

Surgery is recommended when:

• The fracture is displaced
• There is instability
• Alignment is not maintained in a cast

a) Closed Reduction and Pinning

If possible, the bone is realigned without a large incision and fixed using K-wires (metal pins).

b) Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF)

If closed reduction fails, a small incision is made to properly align the bone fragments and secure them with pins or screws.

After surgery:

• Arm is immobilized in a cast
• Pins are removed after healing (usually 3–6 weeks)
• Follow-up is essential

An experienced orthopedic surgeon in Indore ensures precise alignment to prevent long-term deformity.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

1. Cast Care

• Keep the cast dry
• Avoid inserting objects inside the cast
• Watch for swelling or discoloration of fingers

2. Physiotherapy

Once the cast is removed:

• Gentle elbow exercises
• Gradual return to daily activities
• Avoid sports until full recovery

3. Healing Time

Most children recover fully within 8–12 weeks if treated properly.

Complications if Left Untreated

Delaying treatment can lead to:

• Malunion (improper bone healing)
• Non-union (bone does not heal)
• Elbow deformity (cubitus valgus)
• Nerve damage (ulnar nerve palsy)
• Restricted elbow movement
• Growth disturbances

This is why early evaluation by a skilled child orthopedic doctor in Indore is crucial.

Prevention Tips

• Ensure supervision during play
• Use protective gear during sports
• Educate children about safety
• Install safety measures at home and playgrounds

Why Choose Little Bones Paediatric Orthopaedic Clinic?

When it comes to specialized pediatric orthopedic care, expertise matters. Little Bones Paediatric Orthopaedic Clinic is dedicated exclusively to bone and joint problems in children.

Here’s why parents trust this clinic:

1. Specialized Pediatric Orthopedic Care

Unlike general orthopedic centers, this clinic focuses only on children’s bone and joint conditions, including complex elbow fractures.

2. Experienced Child Orthopedic Doctor

Treatment is handled by a highly trained pediatric orthopedic specialist who understands growth plate injuries and their long-term impact.

3. Advanced Diagnostic Facilities

Accurate diagnosis using appropriate imaging techniques ensures no fracture is missed.

4. Child-Friendly Environment

The clinic is designed to make children feel comfortable and reduce anxiety during treatment.

5. Expertise in Growth Plate Injuries

Lateral condyle fractures involve the growth plate. Proper alignment prevents future deformities — something that requires specialized knowledge.

6. Surgical Precision

If surgery is required, it is performed using advanced techniques to ensure:

• Minimal scarring
• Accurate bone alignment
• Faster healing

7. Comprehensive Follow-Up Care

Healing does not end after casting or surgery. Regular follow-ups ensure:

• Proper bone union
• Normal elbow movement
• No late complications

8. Personalized Treatment Plan

Every child is different. Treatment is customized based on age, fracture type, and activity level.

9. Transparent Communication with Parents

Parents are clearly informed about:

• Treatment options
• Expected recovery timeline
• Home care instructions

10. Focus on Long-Term Outcomes

The primary goal is not just fracture healing but restoring complete elbow function and preventing deformity.

When to Visit Immediately?

Seek urgent consultation if your child has:

• Severe elbow pain after a fall
• Swelling that increases rapidly
• Inability to move the elbow
• Finger numbness or bluish discoloration
• Persistent pain despite medication

Book an Appointment Today

If your child has suffered an elbow injury or you suspect a lateral condyle humerus fracture, early treatment is the key to preventing long-term complications.

Consult an experienced orthopedic surgeon in Indore and trusted child orthopedic doctor in Indore at Little Bones Paediatric Orthopaedic Clinic for advanced and reliable care.

📞 Call Now:
+91-7827028020
+91-9654588255

Your child’s healthy growth and pain-free movement are our priority. Early diagnosis, expert treatment, and compassionate pediatric care ensure the best possible recovery.