Image Based Question – 73902

A 9-year-old child presents to your clinic with the following deformity. Which is the most likely fracture leading to such a defect?

A. Colle’s fracture

B. Lateral epicondyle fracture

C. Medial epicondyle fracture

D. Supracondylar fracture

Correct Answer » D Explanation

Ans: D. Supracondylar fracture

(Ref: Apleys 9/e p371, 760)

• The given picture shows cubitus varus or gun-stock deformity.
• The most common cause is ma/union of a supracondylar fracture.

Cubitus Varus (`Gun-Stock’ Deformity):

• The deformity is most obvious when the elbow is extended and the arms are elevated.
• The most common cause is malunion of a supracondylar fracture.
• The deformity can be corrected by a wedge osteotomy of the lower humerus but this is best left until skeletal maturity.