Praxis Medical Insights

Est. 2024 • Clinical Guidelines Distilled

Made possible by volunteer editors from the University of Calgary & University of Alberta

Last Updated: 9/13/2025

Posterior Splint for Nondisplaced Epicondylar Fracture of Left Elbow

Evidence for Posterior Splinting

  • The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends posterior splinting for nondisplaced epicondylar fractures of the elbow, as it provides better pain relief compared to other immobilization techniques, based on moderate quality evidence 1
  • Posterior splinting has been shown to provide superior pain relief within the first 2 weeks after injury compared to collar and cuff immobilization for nondisplaced pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures, with studies including a randomized controlled trial with 50 patients and a prospective double-cohort study with 40 patients 1
  • For nondisplaced fractures, rigid immobilization with a posterior splint provides adequate stabilization while allowing for appropriate healing, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 1

Monitoring and Follow-up

  • Regular radiographic follow-up is essential to monitor fracture healing and detect any late displacement, as recommended by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 1

REFERENCES

1

the treatment of pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures. [LINK]

The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2012