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

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.