ABSTRACT
Supracondylar fractures account for 65% of fractures around the elbow in the child. With much of the paediatric skeleton being cartilage, radiological interpretation may be difficult and the extent of the fracture, degree of displacement, or rotation, easily overlooked. Caution should be exercised and where the diagnosis is uncertain, an arthrogram can be helpful. X-rays of the opposite elbow provide a useful comparison. Inappropriate treatment, or a missed diagnosis, can cause severe long-term complications. Neurovascular injuries are common and should be carefully assessed.
