# Pediatric Floating Elbow: A Case Report of Combined Supracondylar Humerus and Distal Both Bone Forearm Fractures in an 11-Year-Old Boy

## TL;DR

A case report describes a rare injury in an 11-year-old boy with combined elbow and forearm fractures, successfully treated with surgical fixation and monitored for complications.

## Contribution

This case report adds to the limited literature on pediatric floating elbow injuries and emphasizes the importance of timely surgical intervention.

## Key findings

- The patient achieved radiological union and full range of motion three months post-surgery.
- Early recognition and prompt surgical fixation led to favorable outcomes without neurovascular compromise.
- Careful monitoring for compartment syndrome is highlighted as essential in such cases.

## Abstract

The term “floating elbow” describes a rare injury pattern in children involving ipsilateral fractures of the humerus and forearm bones. These high-energy injuries are frequently associated with neurovascular compromise and carry a risk of compartment syndrome. We report an 11-year-old boy who sustained a fall from height, resulting in a left supracondylar humerus fracture (Gartland type III) and ipsilateral distal radius and ulna fractures. Closed reduction and percutaneous K-wire fixation were performed for the supracondylar fracture, and open reduction with K-wire fixation was done for the distal radius, under general anesthesia. Postoperatively, the limb was immobilized in an above-elbow posterior splint. The neurovascular status remained intact throughout the course. The patient achieved radiological union and a full range of motion at three months. Early recognition and prompt fixation of both fractures yield favorable outcomes in pediatric floating elbow injuries. Careful monitoring for compartment syndrome remains essential.