Overview: What is a Lateral Condyle Fracture?
A lateral condyle fracture is an injury that occurs in the outer part of the distal end of a long bone, typically in the humerus (upper arm bone) or the femur (thigh bone). The lateral condyle is one of the two rounded prominences at the end of these bones. It plays a role in forming the joint with adjacent bones, such as the elbow (in the case of the humerus) or the knee (in the case of the femur). This article will discuss lateral condyle fractures of the elbow.
Types of Lateral Condyle Fractures
Lateral condyle fractures of the humerus are commonly classified into two types based on the Milch classification. This system helps in understanding the fracture pattern and determining the appropriate treatment.
Milch Type I Lateral Condyle Fracture
- Description: In this type of fracture, the fracture line passes through the ossification centre (the developing bone tissue) of the lateral condyle and extends into the elbow joint but remains outside the trochlear groove (the groove that articulates with the ulna).
- Stability: Milch Type I fractures are generally more stable because the trochlear groove remains intact.
- Implications: These fractures tend to have a better prognosis due to their stability, and conservative treatment (like casting) may be more effective if the fracture is not displaced.
Milch Type II Lateral Condyle Fracture
- Description: In this type, the fracture line extends into the trochlear groove of the elbow, crossing the growth plate (physis) and often entering the joint surface more centrally.
- Stability: Milch Type II fractures are typically less stable because the trochlear groove is involved, which may lead to a greater risk of displacement.
- Implications: Due to the instability and the involvement of the joint surface, Milch Type II fractures often require surgical intervention to prevent complications like malunion or joint deformity.
Understanding the type of fracture is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment approach and predicting potential complications.

Prevalence of Lateral Condyle Fractures
Lateral condyle fractures of the humerus are one of the most common types of elbow fractures, particularly in children. They account for approximately 12% to 20% of all paediatric elbow fractures. This type of fracture is more prevalent in children aged between 5 and 10, as their bones are still developing, making them more susceptible to such injuries.
Symptoms and Causes
What Causes Lateral Condyle Fractures?
Lateral condyle fractures of the humerus are typically caused by trauma to the elbow. The common causes include:
1. Fall on an Outstretched Hand (FOOSH)
This is the most common cause, especially in children. When a person falls and instinctively puts out their hand to break the fall, the force travels up the arm and impacts the elbow, leading to a fracture in the lateral condyle.
- Scenario: Occurs frequently during running, sports, or climbing activities.
2. Direct Blow to the Elbow
A direct impact to the outer side of the elbow, such as a collision during sports or a fall directly onto the elbow, can cause a fracture.
- Scenario: This can happen in contact sports (like football or rugby) or accidents (e.g., falling onto hard surfaces).
3. Twisting or Rotational Injury
A twisting force applied to the arm, such as when a child’s arm is pulled or twisted forcefully, can lead to a fracture of the lateral condyle.
- Scenario: This can occur in playground activities or during rough play.
4. Repetitive Stress
Although less common, repetitive stress or overuse from activities that place continuous strain on the elbow joint can lead to a stress fracture in the lateral condyle over time.
- Scenario: Seen in young athletes who participate in throwing sports like baseball or javelin.
Risk Factors for Lateral Condyle Fractures
The following risk factors increase the chance of sustaining a lateral condyle fracture of the humerus, especially in children. These factors generally relate to age, activity level, and specific physical characteristics.
- Children (5-10 years): This age group is at the highest risk because their bones, especially the growth plates, are still developing and are more susceptible to fractures. The lateral condyle is particularly vulnerable in young children.
- High Levels of Physical Activity: Kids who are highly active, particularly those involved in running, climbing, or contact sports, have a higher risk due to the increased likelihood of falls and direct impacts on the elbow.
- Sports Participation: Children who participate in sports like gymnastics, football, basketball, or any activity that involves jumping, falling, or collisions are at increased risk.
- Developing Motor Skills: Young children are more prone to falls and accidents that could lead to fractures due to decreased balance and gross motor skills.
- Risky Play: Engaging in play activities without proper supervision or safety measures, such as climbing on playground equipment, increases the risk.
- History of Bone Injuries: Children who have had previous fractures or injuries in the elbow area might have weaker bones, making them more susceptible to another fracture.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Poor calcium and vitamin D intake can lead to weaker bones. This increases the risk of fractures.
- Underlying Health Conditions: Conditions that affect bone density, such as osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease), can also heighten the risk.
- Boys: Statistically, boys are slightly more prone to lateral condyle fractures, likely due to higher participation in physical activities and rough play.
It is important to put in place preventive measures, such as ensuring safe play environments, encouraging the use of protective gear, and promoting good nutrition to support bone health and to decrease the risk of fractures.
Complications of Lateral Condyle Fractures
The following are common complications associated with lateral condyle fractures of the humerus:
- Nonunion: Failure of the fracture to heal, leading to persistent instability and pain.
- Malunion: Healing of the fracture in an incorrect position, causing deformity and functional impairment.
- Growth Disturbance: Damage to the growth plate can result in uneven or stunted bone growth, causing limb length discrepancies or angular deformities.
- Stiffness and Limited Range of Motion: Reduced mobility in the elbow due to prolonged immobilisation or inadequate physiotherapy.
- Cubitus Valgus/Varus Deformity: Abnormal angulation of the elbow, either outward (valgus) or inward (varus), resulting from improper healing.
- Avascular Necrosis (AVN): This is when death of bone tissue occurs due to compromised blood supply, potentially leading to joint collapse.
- Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Development of arthritis in the elbow joint due to improper healing of the joint surface.
Effective management is critical to preventing complications. Access Ortho offers expertise in the management of fractures.
Diagnosis and Tests
How are Lateral Condyle Fractures Diagnosed? And Which Tests Do Providers Use to Diagnose Lateral Condyle Fractures?
Lateral condyle fractures are diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging tests:
- Clinical Evaluation: This involves taking a thorough history of the mechanism of injury and performing a physical examination to assess symptoms like pain, swelling, and range of motion. The orthopaedic team at Access Ortho is skilled in musculoskeletal assessment.
- Imaging Tests: You may be referred for one of the following radiology tests to help confirm your diagnosis.
- X-rays: The primary tool used to identify the fracture, its location, type, and extent.
- Ultrasound: Useful in young children for initial diagnosis, especially when X-rays are unclear.
- CT Scan: Provides detailed images and is helpful in complex or unclear cases.
- MRI: Evaluates soft tissue injuries and detects fractures not visible on X-rays.
An orthopaedic assessment will ensure an accurate diagnosis and help guide appropriate treatment. Access Ortho offers rapid appointments for acute injuries.
Specific Considerations for Lateral Condyle Fractures
For pediatric lateral condyle fractures, the following specific considerations must be assessed:
- Growth Plates: Children’s growth plates are weaker and more susceptible to fractures. If injured, they can affect bone development.
- Displacement: Displaced fractures usually require surgical intervention; non-displaced fractures can often be treated with casting.
- Malunion and Nonunion: Risks include improper healing, deformities, and joint issues.
- Growth Disturbances: Injuries to growth plates can lead to growth arrest or angular deformities.
Pediatric lateral condyle fractures require special consideration due to the involvement of growth plates, which are crucial for bone development. The main concerns are accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment to ensure proper healing, and preventing complications like growth disturbances and deformities. Regular monitoring by an orthopaedic specialist is essential for optimal recovery in children. Access Ortho offers expertise in orthopaedic injuries.
Management and Treatment
How are Lateral Condyle Fractures Treated?
The treatment of lateral condyle fractures depends on the type and severity of the fracture and the patient’s age. Options for treatment include non-surgical management and surgical interventions.
Non-Surgical Management
1. Indications:
- Non-Displaced Fractures: Fractures where the bone fragments have not moved out of alignment.
- Minimally Displaced Fractures: Displacement that does not require immediate surgical correction.
2. Treatment Methods:
- Casting or Splinting: The affected arm is immobilised using a cast or splint to ensure the fracture heals in the correct position. The cast is typically applied from above the elbow to the hand to prevent movement. Usually a cast is required for 4-6 weeks, depending on the fracture’s healing progress.
- Follow-Up: Regular follow-up visits must be made to monitor the healing process through X-rays and to ensure proper alignment.
Surgical Interventions
1. Indications:
- Displaced Fractures: When the fracture fragments are misaligned and cannot be realigned with casting alone.
- Intra-Articular Fractures: Fractures extending into the joint surface that require precise alignment to prevent joint dysfunction.
- Severe Cases: Where non-surgical methods have failed or are deemed insufficient.
2. Surgical Techniques:
- Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF):
- Procedure: The fracture is surgically realigned (reduced) and stabilised using internal fixation devices such as screws, pins, or plates.
- Percutaneous Pinning:
- Procedure: Small pins or wires are inserted into the bone in order to hold the fracture fragments in place. This technique is less invasive compared to ORIF.
3. Postoperative Care:
- Immobilisation: A cast or splint may be used initially after surgery to protect the repair.
- Follow-Up: Regular follow-up visits and X-rays are required to monitor healing and ensure proper alignment.
It is important to ensure an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan is made to improve outcomes. Access Ortho is staffed by orthopaedic specialists trained to make decisions regarding fractures and other musculoskeletal injuries.

Prevention
How Can I Prevent Lateral Condyle Fractures?
The following strategies can be used to help prevent lateral condyle fractures of the humerus:
- Ensure Safe Play: Supervise children and use well-maintained playground equipment with soft surfaces.
- Use Protective Gear: Encourage wearing elbow pads, helmets, and wrist guards during risky activities and sports.
- Promote Safe Practices: Teach safe falling techniques and focus on improving coordination and balance.
- Support Bone Health: Provide a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and encourage weight-bearing exercises.
- Educate on Risks: Inform children and caregivers about safety and proper techniques to avoid injuries.
- Monitor Bone Health: Schedule regular check-ups and seek prompt treatment for any suspected injuries.
Outlook / Prognosis
After a lateral condyle fracture of the humerus, the recovery process involves several stages, these are dependent on the severity of the fracture and the treatment approach. The following is a general overview of the recovery process. The medical team at Access Ortho will guide you through these steps specific to
1. Initial Recovery
- Pain and Swelling: Right after the injury, you may experience pain and swelling in the elbow. Pain management will be a key part of initial care.
- Immobilisation: If treated non-surgically, the arm will be immobilised with a cast or splint. If surgery is performed, there will be an initial period of immobilisation with a cast or splint.
2. Healing Phase
- Casting: The cast is usually worn for 4-6 weeks for non-displaced fractures. During this time, follow-up appointments will monitor the healing process through X-rays.
- Surgical Recovery: If surgery was required, you might have a shorter period of immobilisation, but the overall recovery may involve additional time for the surgical site to heal.
3. Rehabilitation
- Physiotherapy: Once the cast is removed or after surgical intervention, physiotherapy may be needed to restore range of motion, strength, and function. This typically starts a few weeks after the cast removal or post-surgery under the direction of the orthopaedic surgeon.
4. Long-Term Recovery
- Full Recovery: Most people can expect to return to normal activities within 2-3 months, but full recovery, including regaining strength and flexibility, may take longer.
Typical Recovery Times
- Non-Surgical Treatment: About 4-6 weeks in a cast or splint, followed by a few weeks of physiotherapy.
- Surgical Treatment: There will be a similar casting or immobilisation period, with additional time needed for surgical site recovery and possibly longer physiotherapy.
Regular follow-up care after your fracture is essential to minimise complications and to make changes to the treatment plan as required. Access Ortho offers follow-up care until a full recovery is made for non-surgical care. If you need surgery, Access Ortho will help you find a suitable surgeon.

When Should I Seek Medical Attention?
Signs that Require Immediate Care
If you suspect a lateral condyle fracture of the humerus, there are specific signs that require immediate medical attention. Prompt care is crucial to prevent complications and ensure proper healing. You should seek urgent medical care after an elbow injury. Access Ortho offers rapid appointments for acute injuries.
Key signs that indicate you need urgent medical care:
- Severe Pain: Intense, persistent pain in the elbow that shows no improvement with rest or over-the-counter pain medications.
- Significant Swelling and Bruising: Swelling that rapidly increases or is accompanied by severe bruising around the elbow joint.
- Deformity or Misalignment: Visible deformity or abnormal positioning of the elbow, which may indicate a displaced fracture.
- Inability to Move the Elbow: Loss of range of motion or an inability to move the elbow or arm, which may signal severe damage or significant displacement.
- Numbness or Tingling: Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand or fingers, which could indicate nerve involvement or compression.
- Signs of Compartment Syndrome: Increasing pain, swelling, and tightness in the forearm, which may indicate compartment syndrome—a serious condition that requires urgent intervention.
Prompt evaluation and treatment are very important to ensure proper healing and prevent complications. Contact Access Ortho if you are concerned about your elbow injury.
Understanding Fracture Clinics
Role of Fracture Clinics in Lateral Condyle Fracture Management
Access Ortho is a private Fracture clinic offering urgent care for fractures and sprains. Access Ortho provides the following services to manage fractures such as Lateral Condyle Fractures of the Humerus.
1. Specialised Assessment and Diagnosis
- Access to specialised orthopaedic care, through Access Ortho, ensures that patients receive a thorough assessment from orthopaedic specialists trained in managing fractures, including lateral condyle fractures.
2. Treatment Planning and Management
- Tailored Treatment: Access Ortho offers a personalised treatment plan for all injuries guided by orthopaedic surgeons, including non-surgical or surgical options.
- Casts: Access Ortho stocks a full range of casting materials and splints. This ensures your fracture can be immobilised in a suitable way. If alterations to your cast are required, we manage these onsite.
3. Follow-Up and Monitoring
- Access Ortho offers full assessment and follow-up care for your injury, unlike an Emergency Department or Urgent Care, which will typically only see you for an initial assessment.
4. Patient Education and Support
- Access Ortho provides patients with information about their condition, treatment options, and recovery expectations and answers questions throughout the treatment and recovery process.
Access Ortho is a fracture clinic offering a comprehensive approach to ensure effective treatment and optimal recovery for patients with lateral condyle humerus fractures.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lateral Condyle Fractures
What are the main symptoms of a lateral condyle fracture?
You are likely to experience the following symptoms if you have a lateral condyle fracture of the humerus.
- Pain: Sharp or throbbing pain in the elbow, especially when moving or touching the area.
- Swelling: Significant swelling around the elbow joint.
- Bruising: Discoloration and bruising around the elbow.
- Deformity: Possible visible deformity or misalignment of the elbow.
- Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty or inability to move the elbow fully.
- Tenderness: Sensitivity when the area is touched.
How is a lateral condyle fracture different from other elbow fractures?
A lateral condyle fracture specifically involves the outer aspect of the elbow where the humerus meets the forearm bones, while other fractures might affect different parts of the elbow, such as the medial condyle or the radial head.
Lateral condyle fractures can affect the joint surface, which may impact joint function and require careful management to avoid long-term complications.
Are lateral condyle fractures more common in children or adults?
Lateral condyle fractures are more common in children, particularly those aged 5-10 years. This is due to their active play and the presence of growth plates, which are more susceptible to injury.
What is the Jacob classification for lateral condyle fractures?
Jacob Classification: This system is used to classify lateral condyle fractures based on their severity and displacement:
- Type I: Non-displaced or minimally displaced fractures.
- Type II: Displaced fractures requiring surgical intervention.
- Type III: Complex fractures with significant displacement or comminution (multiple fragments).
How long does it typically take for a lateral condyle fracture to heal?
The healing time generally ranges from 6 to 8 weeks for lateral condyle fractures. Non-surgical fractures usually require about 4-6 weeks in a cast or splint, followed by a period of rehabilitation. Depending on the complexity of the fracture, surgical cases might take a similar or slightly longer time.
Will my child need surgery for a lateral condyle fracture?
Whether surgery is needed depends on the type and severity of the fracture:
- Non-Displaced Fractures: Typically managed with casting or splinting.
- Displaced or Complex Fractures: Often require surgical intervention to realign and stabilise the bones.
It is important to get an assessment by an orthopaedic specialist to determine if surgery will be required.
What are the common long-term effects of a lateral condyle fracture?
The Long-Term Effects of a lateral condyle fracture may include:
- Stiffness: Potential for decreased range of motion or stiffness in the elbow joint.
- Deformity: Possible angular deformities if the fracture does not heal correctly.
- Joint Dysfunction: Risk of joint dysfunction or arthritis in the long term if the fracture involves the joint surface.
With expert orthopaedic care, these long-term complications can be minimised. This is why it is essential to seek medical care from a clinic that specialises in fractures, such as Access Ortho.
How can I care for my child at home after a lateral condyle fracture?
After your child sustains a lateral condyle fracture, it is essential to ensure the following occurs at home:
- Rest and Immobilisation: Ensure the arm remains immobilised according to medical instructions.
- Pain Management: Use prescribed pain medications and follow dosing instructions.
- Elevation and Ice: Elevate the arm and apply ice to reduce swelling.
- Follow-Up Care: Adhere to follow-up appointments and instructions from the healthcare provider.
When can my child return to normal activities after a lateral condyle fracture?
Return to normal activities depends on the fracture type and the healing progress. Typically, children can resume normal activities after 2-3 months, but they should avoid strenuous activities or sports until fully cleared by their medical team.
What exercises help in recovering from a lateral condyle fracture?
It’s important to follow the guidance of a healthcare professional for specific exercises and rehabilitation strategies tailored to your condition. The following is a broad overview of what may be included to help in your recovery:
- Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle stretching and range of motion exercises to restore flexibility.
- Strengthening Exercises: Gradual strengthening exercises to build muscle around the elbow once healing is sufficiently advanced.
- Functional Exercises: Activities that mimic daily tasks to improve functional use of the arm.