The most common late complication following a malunited Gartland Type III supracondylar fracture of the humerus in a child is:

• A Tardy ulnar nerve palsy
• B Avascular necrosis of the trochlea
• C Myositis ossificans around the elbow
• D Cubitus varus deformity ✓

Explanation

Cubitus varus, the so-called gunstock deformity, is the commonest late complication of malunited supracondylar fractures, resulting from residual medial tilt and rotation of the distal fragment. It is largely cosmetic, since elbow function is usually preserved. Tardy ulnar nerve palsy is classically associated with malunited lateral condyle fractures causing cubitus valgus, not varus. Myositis ossificans and trochlear avascular necrosis are recognised but far less frequent.

Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.