Pediatric Fracture Discussion
Pediatric fractures are at risk for growth plate disturbances which can
result in abnormal growth and permanent deformity. Remodeling the overall
shape of the bone may occur with growth and may minimize future deformity.
Common problems associated with this fracture include but are not limited
to stiffness, permanent loss of motion, presence of a palpable or visible
bony prominence, deformity, numbness, risk of future arthritis, weakness,
reflex sympathetic dystrophy and other possible problems. Less likely
problems include re-fracture, compression neuropathy and tendon rupture.
Surgical treatment of the fracture may be indicated when the potential
risks of surgery are felt to be justified by the potential benefits of
improving the alignment of the bones as they heal. Hardware may be required
to hold the fracture fragments in position. Future removal of hardware may
be required. Even with surgery, the fracture is still prone to the problems
noted above in addition to risks of surgery, such as infection, hardware
related problems, numbness, tender scars, residual deformity, as well as
less common problems such as anesthetic or drug related reactions, among
others. Fracture position may shift even after reduction, internal fixation
and immobilization. Regardless of treatment, follow up check of the fracture
area with xray in six months is recommended to check integrity of the
growth plates.
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