Pediatric fractures are bone breaks in children, a common occurrence due to their developing bones and high activity levels. These fractures differ from adult fractures because a child’s bones are still growing and have unique properties like a thicker periosteum (bone covering) and growth plates. Common types include incomplete fractures (like greenstick fractures), Salter-Harris fractures (affecting growth plates), and more complex breaks.
Key Differences in Pediatric Fractures:
- Periosteum:Children have a thicker and stronger periosteum, which can lead to incomplete fractures where the bone bends and cracks on one side, like a greenstick fracture.
- Growth Plates:Children’s bones have growth plates (areas of cartilage where bone growth occurs), which are weaker and more susceptible to injury.
- Remodeling:Children’s bones have a remarkable ability to remodel, meaning they can correct alignment and shape as they grow. This can mean that some fractures that might require surgery in adults can be treated with casting or splinting in children.
- Faster Healing:Pediatric fractures generally heal faster than adult fractures.
Common Types of Pediatric Fractures:
- Incomplete Fractures:.These include buckle (or torus) fractures and greenstick fractures, where the bone bends and cracks without completely breaking.
- Salter-Harris Fractures:.These fractures involve the growth plate and are classified based on the extent of growth plate involvement.
- Spiral Fractures:.These fractures occur when the bone is twisted, often seen in toddlers (toddler’s fracture).
- Stress Fractures:.These are tiny hairline cracks caused by repetitive stress, common in young athletes.
- Open Fractures:.These fractures, where the bone breaks through the skin, are less common in children than adults, but still require careful management.
Causes of Pediatric Fractures:
- Falls: A common cause, especially when children try to catch themselves.
- Trauma: Direct blows or impacts.
- Overuse: Repetitive activities can lead to stress fractures.
- Twisting Injuries: Can cause spiral fractures.
Treatment:
- Casting or Splinting: Often used to immobilize the fracture and allow healing.
- Surgery: May be needed for complex or displaced fractures, especially those involving growth plates.
- Physical Therapy: May be needed to regain strength and range of motion after the fracture heals.
Important Considerations:
- Growth Plate Injuries: These injuries need careful assessment and management to prevent long-term growth disturbances.
- Remodeling: The potential for remodeling should be considered when planning treatment.
- Non-Accidental Injury: In some cases, fractures, especially in young children, may raise concerns about potential abuse.