Fractures - Pediatric
A fracture occurs when too much pressure is put on a bone, causing it to break. Most fractures are a result of injuries from activities, falls, motor vehicle accidents or conditions that weaken the bones, such as osteoporosis. Fractures can cause severe pain and immobility until they receive treatment.
Types
- Comminuted fracture. Bone broken into three or more parts
- Displaced fracture. Misaligned bone at the break
- Growth plate fracture. A break in an adolescent’s developing bone
- Oblique fracture. Diagonal break in the bone
- Open (compound) fracture. Broken bone that causes an open wound
- Transverse fracture. Horizontal break in the bone
Symptoms
- Broken skin with exposed bone
- Bruising or bleeding
- Disfigured limb or joint
- Limited range of motion
- Numbness and tingling
- Severe pain
- Swelling
Prevention
- Ensure that children use the proper safety equipment when participating in sports or riding a bike or scooter.
- Prevent falls by making surroundings as safe as possible. Watch for uneven surfaces, remove obstructions from walkways and keep rooms well lit.
Risk factors
- Developing bones (children)
- Overuse from repeated motion
- Participating in heavy contact sports
- Trauma, such as from a fall, motor vehicle accident or violence
Diagnosis
- Physical examination. The healthcare provider will discuss symptoms and evaluate the injured area.
- Imaging. X-rays will show the extent of the injury and damage to the bone. Further imaging, such as an MRI or CT scan, may also be necessary.
Treatment
- Fracture reduction. A bone misaligned at the break may need to be repositioned to mend properly.
- Casting and splinting. Wearing a cast or splint will stabilize the bone as it heals.
- External fixation. Screws inserted into the broken bone and connected to an external metal bar may be needed to keep bones in place while they heal.
- Open reduction and internal fixation. This operation uses screws and metal plates or rods to hold the bone together while it repairs.
Follow-up care
- Avoid stressing the injured area until it has healed.
- Specialized exercises can help rebuild muscle strength after an injury.
- Follow up with your child’s healthcare provider to make sure the bone is healing correctly or if any initial symptoms, such as swelling, numbness or heightened pain, recur.