Comparing laser and electromagnetic treatments for elbow fractures in children

Functional Outcomes of Low Level Laser Versus Pulsed Electromagnetic Therapy in Children With Supracondylar Humeral Fracture

This study is testing whether low level laser therapy or pulsed electromagnetic field therapy helps children aged 6 to 10 recover better from elbow fractures after surgery.

Quick facts

• Phase: Not applicable
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 40 (estimated)
• Ages: 6 Years to 10 Years
• Sex: All
• Sponsor: Cairo University (Academic / other)
• Locations: 1 site (Banī Suwayf)
• Trial ID: NCT06220812 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to compare the effects of low level laser therapy (LLLT) and pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMFT) on the recovery of children aged 6 to 10 with type II and III supracondylar humeral fractures. Participants will be randomly assigned to two groups, with one receiving LLLT and the other receiving PEMFT, alongside a structured physical therapy program. The study will assess improvements in range of motion, pain levels, muscle strength, and hand function over a six-week period. The goal is to determine which modality provides better outcomes for these pediatric patients post-surgery.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 6 to 10 with unilateral type II or III supracondylar humeral fractures requiring surgical intervention.

Not a fit: Patients with previous injuries, infections, or neurological deficits affecting the upper limbs may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance recovery and functional outcomes for children with elbow fractures.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar therapeutic approaches, suggesting potential for success in this study.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age ranges from 6 to 10 years of both genders.
2. All subjects have unilateral extension type II and III supracondylar humeral fracture requiring closed reduction and percutaneous pinning (CRPP).
3. The study will be start immediately after removal the splint.
4. Children clinically and medically stable.
5. Children able to follow verbal commands.
6. Children sample will represent those children who enrolled in schools and other not yet.

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Exclusion Criteria:

The patients will be excluded if they have one of the following criteria;

1. Previous soft tissue injury at the same affected side of fracture.
2. Presence of associated fractures on the ipsilateral or contralateral upper limb.
3. Active infection near the fracture site.
4. Children with congenital or acquired skeletal deformities in the upper limbs.
5. Children with neurological deficits such as convulsions, involuntary movements, receiving muscle relaxants.

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Where this trial is running

Banī Suwayf

• General Beni-Seuif Hospital — Banī Suwayf, Egypt (Recruiting)

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Amira Ezzat, master degree

Conditions Supracondylar Humeral Fracture in Pediatric; SCHF- low level laser- pulsed electromagnetic field.