ABSTRACT

Complete distal humeral epiphyseal separation which is similar to elbow dislocation is a rare injury in neonates. Whereas ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are helpful, plain radiographs are ineffective when diagnosing this disorder. We report a case in which a fracture-separation of the distal humeral epiphysis was diagnosed in a newborn via ultrasonography and MRI. A clear delineation of the injury was provided. The fractured distal humerus was treated by internal fixation with percutaneous Kirschner wires. A follow-up observation revealed a good recovery. Traumatic separation of the distal epiphysis may be missed in maternity wards and not diagnosed until the patient is discharged from hospital. However, a good clinical result can be expected even when no attempt is made to reduce the dislocated epiphysis.