Pediatrics Case 10 History/Physical

Supracondylar fractures tend to occur after a FOOSH (fall on outstretched hand) injury with the elbow in extension. Some, however, occur in elbow flexion.

Children will often present with a painful and swollen elbow and decreased range of motion. Sometimes deformity will be present.

Due to the association with neurovascular injury, evaluate capillary refill, radial pulse, and radial/ulnar/median nerve function. Consider compartment syndrome - check for tense swelling, skin color and temperature, sensation, pain on passive stretch.