In a supracondylar fracture, what nerve is most at risk of injury?

In a supracondylar fracture of the humerus, the median nerve is at the highest risk of injury due to its anatomical location. The median nerve runs anterior to the elbow, lying close to the humeral shaft and the distal joint. In cases of supracondylar fractures, particularly those that are displaced, the fracture fragments can shift and impinge on the median nerve, leading to potential neuropathy.

The median nerve is responsible for the innervation of several muscles in the forearm and hand, and damage can result in issues such as a loss of thumb opposition and impaired sensation in the palm and fingers. This illustrates the importance of assessing median nerve function when evaluating a patient with a supracondylar fracture, as prompt identification and management of nerve injuries are crucial for optimal recovery outcomes.

The other nerves listed, although they may be involved in different types of injuries around the elbow, are not at the same level of risk in the context of a supracondylar fracture specifically. The radial nerve, for example, is more commonly injured in mid-shaft humeral fractures. The ulnar nerve generally runs posterior to the medial epicondyle and is not typically at risk with this type of fracture. The ax