Utility of Follow-up Radiographs in Type 1 Supracondylar Humerus Fractures

Objective: Supracondylar humerus (SCH) fractures are common among pediatric patients, with the severity categorized using the Gartland classification system. Type 1 SCH fractures are nondisplaced and treated with immobilization, while more displaced fractures require surgery. The need for follow-up radiographs, particularly for type 1 fractures, is an area where evidence is lacking. This study investigates the clinical value and financial implications of follow-up radiographs for type 1 SCH fractures, hypothesizing that they do not alter clinical management and, therefore, represent an unnecessary expense.

Methods: This retrospective cohort study, approved by the Institutional Review Board, focused on patients under 18 with nondisplaced SCH fractures treated nonoperatively. One hundred one type 1 SCH fractures, in which the fracture was visible on presenting radiographs, were chosen from patients presenting between January 2021 and December 2022. Charts were reviewed for demographic information, time of cast removal, and complications. A pediatric orthopaedic surgeon and orthopaedic resident reviewed the radiographs to confirm the injury to be a type 1 SCH fracture.

Results: Among the 101 patients, after the initial presentation, 79 attended an interim visit and 101 attended a "3-week follow-up" at an average of 23 days postinjury. All patients underwent radiographs during these visits for a total of 180 radiographs after confirmation of type 1 SCH fracture. No changes in management resulted from follow-up radiographs. One instance of refracture was noted ~3 months after cast removal. There were 180 superfluous follow-up radiographs taken at subsequent clinic visits. The total charge for these radiographs was $76,001.40, averaging $752.49 per patient.

Conclusion: Follow-up radiographs for type 1 SCH fractures did not lead to changes in clinical management, aligning with previous findings in more severe SCH fractures. This approach can reduce costs, radiation exposure, and clinic time without compromising patient care. The study can reassure providers and parents about the lack of necessity for follow-up radiographs to document healing.

Level of evidence: Level-IV.