How safe is the semi-sterile technique in the percutaneous pinning of supracondylar humerus fractures?

BACKGROUND The purpose of the present study was to evaluate safety and efficiency of the semi-sterile technique used in recent years in treatment of pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures (SHF). METHODS Total of 712 patients who were treated for SHF via closed reduction and percutaneous fixation with semi-sterile technique were enrolled in present study. Patients were evaluated for postoperative infection and other complications. Clinical and radiological assessments were also made. RESULTS It was found that there were 52 (7.3%) pin tract infections, which responded to oral antibiotic administration and pin care without need for early pin removal (before 3 weeks). There were no deep infections. Loss of reduction was observed in 82 patients (11.5%). There were 59 iatrogenic nerve injuries (8.3%), of which 52 (7.3%) were ulnar palsy. Clinically apparent cubitus varus was observed in 29 (4.1%) patients. CONCLUSION Though semi-sterile technique is an effective treatment in closed percutaneous pinning of SHF, increased pin tract infection risk is a matter of concern.