Children love to run, jump, jump and tumble, so childhood accidents are a common occurrence. A poorly supported hand, a fall or a blow can result in a Bone fracture.
Almost half of the children, no less than 42 percent, has the possibility of suffering a bone fracture throughout the growth period. In girls, perhaps because they participate in less active games, the probability is somewhat lower, 27 percent.
The bone fractures in children They are quite common episodes, although they usually resolve in a short time and without leaving sequels. The most frequent fracture in childhood occurs in the bones of the forearm (radius or ulna) and in the elbow, and approximately three out of every four forearm fractures in children involve the end of the radius that corresponds to the wrist.
Since the bones of children are different from those of adults (they are more elastic, more porous), the fractures are also different, and therefore the treatment is usually simpler due to the high capacity of regeneration and remodeling of the growing skeleton .
Classification of bone fractures in children
They have very characteristic patterns and well differentiated from adults. Depending on their characteristics, fractures in children are classified as:
- Torus fracture (from Latin cord). It is also known as "bull fracture", "runner fracture" or "bamboo cane": The upper layer of the bone is compressed, causing the other side to bend outward from the growth cartilage. It is a stable fracture and there is no displacement of the bones.
- Green Stem Fracture: receives that name because the fracture line is similar to that produced when trying to break a green stem. It does not break completely but there is an inflection of the bone from its ends.
- Growth cartilage fracture: occurs in epiphyseal plates, cartilage composite plates near the ends of the bones, and can have an impact on the growth of that bone.
- Metaphyseal fracture: The fracture crosses the upper or lower portion of the body of the bone and does not affect the growth cartilage.
Most frequent fractures in children
- Forearm and elbow fracture: They are the most frequent in childhood due to falls on the hand.
- Fractured ankle and tibia: may occur when twisting or bending your foot up. They frequently occur as a result of a fall, a blow, an accident or the practice of some sport.
- Humerus fracture: may occur in newborns due to a difficult birth. It can also be presented by older children by a very strong blow.
- Clavicle fracture: may occur during childbirth, especially in large children or difficult births. They resolve without sequels. It can also be given in older children by a strong blow to the shoulder.
Treatment of fractures in children
Fractures in a child's bones begin to weld much faster than an adult's bones. Therefore, if it is suspected that the child may have suffered a fracture because there is pain or swelling, it is important that he receives immediate medical attention. Thus the bones can be fixed so that they begin to weld properly.
When there is suspicion of a fracture, the child's limb should be immobilized until reaching the assistance center.
Each fracture has its specific treatment, depending on the age of the child, but in global terms, the objective is to achieve bone consolidation quickly and effectively, avoid displacement and avoid the occurrence of complications.
The minor fractures They only require a splint or cast for 3 or 4 weeks until they weld.
The more severe fractures They may require that the doctor have to manipulate the bones to properly align them and may need immobilization for a longer time.
The surgery In case of fracture in children it is indicated when there are displacements, when the bones cannot be aligned manually, when the bones have fractured passing through the skin or when they have begun to weld in an incorrect position.
Photos | keysorg and qwrrty on Flickr
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