The most common cause of Volkmann’s ischaemic contracture (V.I.C) in a child is –
**Volkmann's Ischaemic Contracture (V.I.C) Core Concept**
Volkmann's ischaemic contracture is a deformity of the forearm and hand caused by ischaemia of the forearm muscles, leading to fibrosis and contracture. This condition is often seen in young children.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The most common cause of Volkmann's ischaemic contracture in children is a supracondylar fracture of the humerus. This type of fracture is common in children and can lead to compartment syndrome, which is a condition characterized by increased pressure within a muscle compartment, leading to ischaemia and eventually contracture. The pressure rise is due to bleeding into the tightly bound fascial compartments surrounding the forearm muscles.
* The mechanism of injury involves a fracture that compromises the blood supply to the forearm, leading to ischaemia.
* The increased pressure within the muscle compartments further compromises the blood supply, leading to tissue ischaemia and eventual contracture.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:**
This option is incorrect as it does not specify the correct type of injury that leads to Volkmann's ischaemic contracture.
**Option B:**
This option is incorrect as compartment syndrome is a common complication of the actual cause of Volkmann's ischaemic contracture, but it is not the cause itself.
**Option C:**
This option is incorrect as it does not specify the correct type of injury that leads to Volkmann's ischaemic contracture.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The most common cause of Volkmann's ischaemic contracture in children is a supracondylar fracture of the humerus. This type of fracture can lead to compartment syndrome, which can result in ischaemia and contracture of the forearm muscles.
**Correct Answer:** A. Supracondylar fracture of the humerus.