Supracondylar (distal humeral metaphysis) fractures of the humerus are the most common elbow injury in children. They usually occur in children between 4 and 8 years old after a fall on an outstretched hand.
Supracondylar fractures can be described as either a flexion or extension injury type, meaning that the distal humerus fragment is flexed or extended relative to the proximal humeral shaft on a lateral radiograph. Extension-type fractures are far more common.
Children with supracondylar fractures present with elbow pain and swelling; deformity and ecchymosis might be present with a more severe injury. The neurovascular exam at presentation is critical in children with supracondylar humerus injuries. The anterior interosseus nerve is most commonly injured in extension-type injuries, and the ulnar nerve is most commonly injured in flexion type injuries. The brachial artery can have decreased flow (owing to stretch or spasm) when it is tented over the distal humeral metaphysis. Examination of radial pulses and perfusion of the hand (including skin color and capillary refill) is required.
Full Article - https://www.orthopaedia.com/pediatric-fractures-of-the-upper-extremities/#Supracondylar-Humerus-Fractures
