What condition may occur secondary to ischemia following a supracondylar fracture?

Volkmann's contracture is a condition that can develop as a complication following ischemia, particularly in the context of a supracondylar fracture of the humerus. This type of fracture can lead to damage of blood vessels and subsequent reduced blood flow to the forearm muscles.

When the muscles experience ischemia, they can undergo necrosis, leading to irreversible changes in the muscle tissue. The resulting muscle fibrosis and shortening create a scenario where the affected muscles contract, often resulting in a fixed position of the hand and wrist—this is characterized as a contracture. Specifically, Volkmann's contracture typically affects the flexor muscles, leading to a forearm position where the wrist is flexed and the fingers are clawed, significantly impairing function and mobility.

This relationship between ischemia from a supracondylar fracture and the development of Volkmann’s contracture underscores the critical importance of timely intervention for fractures to restore blood flow and prevent complications.