Outcomes After Operative Treatment of Pediatric Monteggia Fracture-Dislocations: Comparison Between Open and Closed Injuries

Abstract

Background: Open pediatric Monteggia fracture-dislocations are a relatively uncommon injury pattern, with limited numbers reported in previous series. Open fracture-dislocations frequently represent more severe injury patterns with potential for contamination. We aim to determine differences in long-term clinical and functional outcomes in the operative management of closed versus open pediatric Monteggia fracture-dislocations.

Methods: A retrospective review of operatively treated pediatric Monteggia fracture-dislocations was performed. Closed versus open injuries were compared in both clinical outcomes, as well as patient-reported outcomes through Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) questionnaire.

Results: Of 30 operatively treated injuries, 12/30 (40%) were open fracture-dislocations. Patients were followed clinically for an average of 15.65 months in open injuries and an average of 4.61 months in closed injuries. A trend toward increased time to union was observed, however, significance was not achieved; open injuries averaged 8.0 versus 5.8 weeks for closed injuries ( P =0.07). Two patients (11%) in the closed fracture group experienced postoperative complications; both were minor. Five patients (42%) in the open fracture-dislocation group experienced a total of 6 postoperative complications; 5 of the 6 complications were major. QuickDASH scores were obtained at an average of 5 years postoperatively; mean QuickDASH scores were higher in the open fracture group, 13.1, compared with the closed fracture group, 5.9 ( P =0.038). Increased QuickDASH scores were independently associated with presence of postoperative complications. QuickDASH score could be expected to increase by 12.5 points in those with major complications ( P =0.044).

Conclusion: We present the largest single cohort of pediatric open Monteggia fracture-dislocation injuries to date. These injuries are predictive of poorer outcomes including trend toward increased time to union, increased risk of major complication, and can independently predict worse long-term patient-reported functional outcomes.

Level of evidence: Level III-these data represent a retrospective comparative study of clinical and functional outcomes.