Epiphyseal Fractures Research Articles

Evaluation of factors affecting development of complications in the early surgical treatment of distal tibial epiphyseal fractures

Evaluation of factors affecting development of complications in the early surgical treatment of distal tibial epiphyseal fractures

Sagittal Fragment Rotation and Ogden Type-I Classification Are Hallmarks of Combined Tibial Tubercle Fracture and Patellar Tendon Injury.

Tibial tubercle fractures (TTFs) are uncommon injuries, comprising <3% of all proximal tibial fractures. These fractures occasionally occur in conjunction with a patellar tendon injury (PTI). We aimed to identify risk factors associated with combined TTF and PTI. A retrospective review was performed of patients presenting to a single, tertiary children's hospital with TTF between 2012 and 2023. Demographic data, operative details, radiographs, and injury patterns were analyzed. Radiographs were assessed for the epiphyseal union stage (EUS), Ogden classification, and fracture patterns. Multiple logistic regression models were used to assess the impact of body mass index, comminution, fracture fragment rotation, EUS, bilateral injury, and Ogden classification on injury type. We identified 262 fractures in 252 patients (mean age, 13.9 ± 1.31 years). Of the patients, 6% were female and 48% were Black. Of the 262 fractures, 228 (87%) were isolated TTFs and 34 (13%) were TTFs with PTI. Multivariable analysis demonstrated fragment rotation on lateral radiographs (p < 0.0001) and Ogden Type-I classification (p < 0.0001) to be the most predictive risk factors for a combined injury. Rotation was associated with a substantial increase in the odds of a combined injury, with an odds ratio of 22.1 (95% confidence interval [CI], 6.1 to 80.1). Ogden Type-I fracture was another significant risk factor, with an odds ratio of 10.2 (95% CI, 3.4 to 30.4). The Ogden classification and fragment rotation are the most useful features for distinguishing between isolated TTF and combined TTF with PTI. This is the first study to identify risk factors for TTF combined with PTI. Surgeons may use this information to aid in preoperative planning. Diagnostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Fractures around the knee in children : Epiphysiolysis and physeal fractures of the distal femur and proximal tibia

Epiphysiolysis and epiphyseal fractures of the distal femur and proximal tibia are an extremely rare entity, but due to their far-reaching consequences with associated functional restrictions of the knee joint, they must be recognized and treated thoroughly. Complete and correct diagnosis is essential and, diagnostically speaking and in addition to standard x‑rays in two planes, the threshold for cross-sectional imaging examination techniques should be low. Aconservative treatment attempt is possible for undisplaced fractures, but surgical retention and stabilization using wires and screws is usually indicated. Growth disorders often and inevitably occur after such injuries. Clinical monitoring of complications only ends once growth is complete.

The modified suture-bridge technique for treating avulsion fracture of minors tibial eminence of anterior cruciate ligament: a retrospective study

PurposeThis study aimed to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of modified suture-bridge technique fixation for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tibial avulsion fracture.MethodMinors who underwent arthroscopic reduction and modified suture bridge fixation of ACL tibial avulsion fracture between January 2018 and January 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Postoperative MRI and X-ray examinations were performed to evaluate the presence of epiphyseal plate injury and fracture healing. Moreover, KT-1000 side-to-side difference, Lachman test, range of motion (ROM), the subjective Knee score of the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Lysholm Knee score, and Tegner activity grade score were evaluated preoperatively and at the minimum 1-year follow-up visit.ResultsA total of 16 participants met the inclusion criteria. They had a mean age of 12.6 years (range, 9–16 years); mean time to surgery, 6.9 days (range, 2–13 days) and had a minimum of 12 months clinical follow-up (mean, 25.4 months; range, 12–36 months) after surgery. Postoperative radiographs and MRI showed no injury to the epiphyseal plate, optimal reduction immediately after the operation, and bone union within three months in all patients. All of the following showed significant improvements (pre- vs. postoperatively): mean KT-1000 side-to-side difference (8.6 vs. 1.5; p < 0.05), Lachman tests (2 grade 9 and 3 grade 7 vs. 0 grade 12 and 1 grade 4; p < 0.05), IKDC subjective score (48.3 vs. 95.0; p < 0.05), mean Lysholm score (53.9 vs. 92.2; p < 0.05), mean Tegner activity score (3.2 vs. 8.3; p < 0.05) and mean ROM (42.9°vs 133.1°; p < 0.05).ConclusionArthroscopic reduction and modified suture bridge fixation for ACL tibial avulsion fracture is a dependable and recommended treatment that can effectively restore the stability and function of the knee and is worthy of clinical promotion.

Operative treatment of isolated epiphyseal fracture of the distal fibula: 1 case report and literature review

Pediatric ankle injuries are common; ankle epiphyseal fractures are also common in children. But isolated distal epiphyseal fibular fractures of the distal fibula are clinically rare. We describe one unusual case of an adolescent with a completely displaced Salter-Harris type II distal fibular epiphyseal fracture. The attempt of closed reduction failed, and the patient required open reduction and internal fixation. The localized periosteum and the superior peroneal retinaculum were avulsed from the distal fibular metaphysis, with the peroneal tendons underneath exposed but no obvious subluxation. To the best of our knowledge, this combination of injuries has not been previously reported.

Operative Treatment of Distal Tibial Fractures in Children Managed With Epiphyseal Screws: A Comparison of Outcomes When Screws Are Retained Versus Removed Following Fracture Union.

Fractures of the distal tibial epiphysis in children are often accompanied by articular surface disruption. With increased displacement, internal fixation is frequently performed with an epiphyseal screw to close the fracture gap. Despite limited, high-level clinical evidence to support implant removal, epiphyseal screws are commonly removed after fracture healing due to potentially increased contact forces on the tibiotalar joint. The purpose of this study was to investigate and compare outcomes and complications in children that underwent surgical treatment of distal tibial epiphyseal fractures with placement of an epiphyseal screw(s) and had the implant(s) retained versus removed at a minimum of 2-year postoperative follow-up. Children younger than 18 years from two urban tertiary care centers who underwent operative management of distal tibia Salter-Harris III and IV fractures using epiphyseal screws (2013-2020) were divided into two cohorts: retained epiphyseal screws and implant removed. Demographics, intraoperative, postoperative, and radiographic data were collected. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) using the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) questionnaires were collected at the final follow-up. Statistical analysis, including power analysis, was performed. Fifty-two children were included (30 males, 22 females) with a mean age of 13.3 years at the time of injury (range, 7.7-16.4 years). Thirty-five children retained the implants; seventeen had implants removed. All completed the FAAM questionnaires at a mean follow-up of 4.4 ± 1.9 years, while 29 completed the SANE questionnaire at a mean follow-up of 4.4 ± 1.7 years. No statistically significant difference in patient demographics, surgical variables, or PROs was observed. Six children experienced complications from the initial surgery, including infections and complex regional pain syndrome, with no difference in complication rates between the cohorts ( P =0.08). Furthermore, no complication was observed as a result of implant removal. Children with retained epiphyseal implants have similar functional outcomes as compared with those who had implants removed after distal tibial epiphyseal fracture fixation and union. Level III-Retrospective comparative study.

Closed reduction with percutaneous Kirschner wire fixation for delayed treatment of distal humeral epiphyseal fracture separation

Background: Fracture separation of the distal humeral epiphysis in children is a relatively uncommon injury, predominantly occurring in children under 3 years. It has a high risk of treatment delays. This study aims to evaluate outcomes in the management of fracture separation of the distal humeral epiphysis treated seven or more days post-initial injury. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients diagnosed with fracture separation of the distal humeral epiphysis between November 2016 and October 2023. Inclusion criteria encompassed patients with delayed presentation of fracture separation of the distal humeral epiphysis who underwent surgical intervention seven or more days following the initial injury. Demographic data were collected, and fractures were categorized using the modified DeLee classification. Plain radiographs facilitated the assessment of the carrying angle and postoperative Baumann angle. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Flynn criteria. Results: The study included 12 patients who met the inclusion criteria. The average age at the time of injury was 1.59 years. According to the modified DeLee system, fracture classification identified one type I fracture, eight type II fractures, and three type III fractures. The average duration from injury to surgery was 11.8 days. The mean surgical duration was 21.5 min. The average follow-up period was 40.7 months. One patient exhibited cubitus varus development. Based on the Flynn criteria, outcomes were as follows: seven patients had excellent outcomes, four had good outcomes, and one had a poor outcome. Conclusion: Closed reduction with percutaneous K-wire fixation represents a minimally invasive approach suitable for children diagnosed with fracture separation of the distal humeral epiphysis seven or more days post-initial injury. Most of these patients experienced favorable outcomes. Level of evidence: IV

Hypoxic environment promotes angiogenesis and bone bridge formation by activating Notch/RBPJ signaling pathway in HUVECs

After epiphyseal fracture, the epiphyseal plate is prone to ischemia and hypoxia, leading to the formation of bone bridge and deformity. However, the exact mechanism controlling the bone bridge formation remains unclear. Notch/RBPJ signaling axis has been indicated to regulate angiogenesis and osteogenic differentiation. Our study aims to investigate the mechanism of bone bridge formation after epiphyseal plate injury, and to provide a theoretical basis for new therapeutic approaches to prevent the bone bridge formation. The expression of DLL4 and RBPJ was significantly up-regulated in HUVECs after ischemia and hypoxia treatment. Notch/RBPJ pathway positively regulated the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. HUVECs can induce osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs under ischemia and hypoxia. Notch/RBPJ pathway is involved in the regulation of the trans-epiphyseal bridge formation. Notch/RBPJ in HUVECs is associated with osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs and may participate in the regulation of the bone bridge formation across the epiphyseal plate.

Bone union and mobility outcomes for reconstructed open tibial fractures: a plastic surgical experience from a major trauma center.

The goal in open tibial fracture management is to achieve a united tibia in an extremity that allows pain free mobilization. The objective of this study was to assess factors that lead to this functional outcome in lower limb reconstruction, from a plastic surgical perspective. The Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery lower limb database at a tertiary trauma hospital was searched for open tibial injuries from February 2015 to March 2020. The nature and severity of injury, timing and details of all operations including reconstructions were collected prospectively. Mobility including gait aids, pain, and complications were retrospectively collected. Union was assessed in two ways, depending on fracture location. Metaphyseal and diaphyseal tibial fractures were provided mRUST scores (union defined as RUST > 13) and epiphyseal tibial fractures were categorically classified as "united" or "non-union" by two independent radiologists. During the five-year study period there were 148 open leg injuries in the database. Twenty-one patients underwent a primary amputation due to severity of their initial injury. One hundred patients underwent primary limb salvage. Sixty-one patients in the limb salvage group achieved primary tibial union with a mean follow-up time of 19.4 months post injury. Twenty-three additional patients were confirmed to subsequently unite. Patient who achieved union were more likely to mobilise without gait aids. In this study definitive external fixation and soft tissue infection were both associated with higher rates of non-union. Longer times to soft tissue reconstruction was not associated with an increase in acute soft tissue complications. More importantly bone union, pain and mobility did not decline. After undertaking a primary limb salvage pathway for 100 patients, the ultimate tibial fracture union rate was 84% and the confirmed ambulation rate was 96%.

Therapeutic approaches of diametaphyseal radius fractures in children.

There are clear standards for when to operate on both distal epiphyseal and diaphyseal forearm fractures in children. However, paediatric surgeons are often faced with fractures in the transition zone between metaphysis and diaphysis. This aim of the study is to compare different treatment approaches for diametaphyseal forearm fractures, to classify different types of these fractures, and to define further assessment parameters and treatment recommendations. This retrospective study included all patients with diametaphyseal radial fractures who were seen at a paediatric surgery clinic between 01.01.2010 and 31.12.2013. Patients were treated either non-surgically (C) or surgically using bicortical Kirschner wire (BC-KW), intramedullary K-wire (IM-KW), elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN), or combined bicortical and intramedullary K-wire (BCIM-KW). During the study period, 547 patients presented with forearm fractures of which 88 patients (16%) had a fracture in the diametaphyseal region. The majority of diametaphyseal fractures were greenstick fractures (54.4%) followed by transverse fractures (44.3%). Distal fractures were predominantly treated with bicortical K-wiring (BC-KW, 40.5%) or non-surgically (C, 26.2%). Proximal fractures were treated by ESIN osteosynthesis (50%), followed by IM-KW (30%). Intermediate fractures were just as likely to be treated with one out of the 5 above-mentioned techniques. The ulna was involved in 64 of 88 cases. Depending on the type of fracture, it was treated either by ESIN osteosynthesis or non-surgically. No superior operative technique was identified. The description of diametaphyseal fractures as a separate entity is important, because the therapy of these fractures is heterogeneous and challenging. A classification into proximal, intermediate, and distal may be useful in clinical decision-making. Despite the retrospective nature of this study, our data suggest that the use of a K-wire or combined technique BCIM-KW-technique, whenever technically feasible, achieves better radiological results without secondary dislocation. Further prospective studies are needed to provide better guidance to trauma surgeons.

Physical management in algodystrophy syndrome

Aim: Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is characterised by chronic pain, swelling, and vasomotor dysfunction. The disorder often gradually leads to muscle dystrophy, bone defects, and decreased limb function. The etiology of this condition has not been fully established. Aim. To analyse the physical therapy in CRPS patients treated at the Division of Physical Medicine of the Department of Rehabilitation in 2012-2022. Materials and Methods: The study involved a group of 58 patients after distal epiphyseal fractures of the forearm and crus. Testing concerned the following: hand or foot skin temperature, hand grip strength, pain intensity, bone radiographs, and psychosomatic profile according to Zung’s scale. Physical therapy included whirlpool massage, lidocaine and calcium iontophoresis, variable low frequency magnetic fields, and kinesiotherapy. Results: After 6-week treatment, we achieved full clinical improvement in 82% of the patients and partial improvement in 18% (these were patients in whom the treatment was introduced at an advanced stage of the disorder). Conclusions: 1. Complex regional pain syndrome is a difficult clinical problem. 2. Early diagnosis and introduction of focused physical therapy allow for full restoration of limb function.

Short-term effectiveness of ultrasound-guided Kirschner wire provocation technique in treatment of Salter-Harris types Ⅰ and Ⅱ periosteal entrapment of distal tibial epiphyseal fractures in children and adolescents

To investigate the short-term effectiveness of ultrasound-guided closed reduction by Kirschner wire provocation technique in the treatment of Salter-Harris types Ⅰ and Ⅱ periosteal entrapment of distal tibial epiphyseal fractures in children and adolescents. Between May 2019 and May 2022, 41 patients with Salter Harris types Ⅰ and Ⅱ distal tibial epiphyseal fractures were admitted, all of whom had periosteal entrapment on preoperative MRI, and 38 cases (92.7%) were confirmed to have periosteal entrapment by intraoperative ultrasound. There were 24 males and 14 females, the age ranged from 6.8 to 15.7 years, with an average of 10.7 years; and there were 20 cases of Salter Harris type Ⅰ and 18 cases of type Ⅱ. The time from injury to operation was 22-76 hours, with an average of 28.4 hours. The preoperative imaging examination showed excellent alignment in 4 cases, good in 20 cases, and poor in 14 cases. The ultrasound guided Kirschner wire provocation technique for closed reduction and percutaneous Kirschner wire internal fixation were performed. The operation time, intraoperative fluoroscopy frequency, fracture healing time, and complications were recorded. Anteroposterior and lateral X-ray films of the affected ankle joint were taken before operation, at 3 months after operation, and at last follow-up to observe the healing of the fracture, and anteroposterior X-ray films of the whole length of both lower limbs were taken to evaluate the alignment of the force lines of the affected limbs. The range of motion (ROM), visual analogue scale (VAS) score, and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score were used to evaluate ankle function. The mechanical lateral distal tibia angle (mLDTA) and the anatomic anterior distal tibia angle (aADTA) were measured. The operation time ranged from 17 to 52 minutes, with an average of 22.6 minutes, and the intraoperative fluoroscopy frequency ranged from 3 to 11 times, with an average of 4.2 times. X-ray examination during operation and at 2 days after operation showed that anatomical reduction was achieved. All patients were followed up 10-24 months, with an average of 16.4 months. All fractures healed in 6.1-7.2 weeks, with an average of 6.3 weeks; no fracture displacement occurred, and the patients recovered to their pre-injury level of motion at 6 months after operation. Needle tail irritation occurred in 2 cases at 4 weeks after operation, and they recovered after symptomatic treatment. During the follow-up, there was no serious complication such as incision deep infection, bone nonunion, delayed union, and malunion. At last follow-up, the patients' alignment were all excellent, and the difference was significant when compared with preoperative one ( Z=-7.471, P<0.001). The VAS score, AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score, dorsiflexion-plantar flexion ROM, varus-valgus ROM, mLDTA, and aADTA significantly improved at 3 months after operation and last follow-up when compared with preoperative ones ( P<0.05). Ultrasound-guided closed reduction by Kirschner wire provocation technique for treating Salter-Harris types Ⅰ and Ⅱ periosteal entrapment of distal tibial epiphyseal fractures in children and adolescents is minimally invasive and safe.

Delayed Presentation of Popliteal Artery Injury after Salter-Harris III Proximal Tibia Fracture

Introduction. Proximal tibia physeal fractures in children are not very common but can be dangerous because they can harm popliteal fossa structures, especially the popliteal artery. Popliteal artery injuries (PAI) are most commonly the result of trauma to the lower extremity, including blunt force, hyperextension injuries, complex fractures, and knee dislocations that can compromise popliteal neurovascular structures. Case Presentation. A 14-year-old boy presents to the emergency department after being transferred from an outside hospital 24 hours after a left lower extremity hyperextension injury. Radiographs demonstrated a Salter-Harris III proximal tibia fracture with posterior displacement. ABIs were deferred due to palpable distal pulses and no evidence of compartment syndrome. Closed reduction and percutaneous pinning were planned to correct the fracture. Intraoperatively, it was discovered that knee extension decreased lower extremity perfusion while knee flexion returned perfusion. An angiography revealed a popliteal artery occlusion with no distal flow. Based on this, an above-knee to below-knee popliteal bypass using the contralateral great saphenous vein was performed followed by closed reduction and percutaneous pinning of the proximal tibia. Conclusion. Proximal tibia physeal injuries, especially the Salter-Harris III and IV injuries, warrant a high index of suspicion of popliteal artery injuries. Palpable pulses and delayed presentation in the distal lower extremity do not rule out a PAI because collateral flow to the anterior and posterior tibial arteries may mask signs of an avascular limb, highlighting the need for a thorough history and physical exam. The authors present this case to reaffirm the importance of an ankle-brachial index when evaluating hyperextension injuries with proximal tibial epiphyseal fractures.

Acute traumatic patellar tendon rupture and simultaneous fracture of the tibial tubercle avulsion in a premature soccer player

Bone-tendon junctions are prone for acute trauma due to its structural weakness, especially in premature males. For the lower limb, the most eminent area is the tibial tubercle apophysis. Osgood Schlatter disease (OSD) due to repetitive trauma or epiphyseal fractures due to one trauma is well described in literature and known in pediatric practice. Traumatic distal patella tendon ruptures on the other hand are a typical injury of the knee extensor mechanism of mature patients in the fourth decade. Here, the very rare condition of fracture of the tibial tubercle apophysis with simultaneous rupture of the distal patellar tendon of a 15 year old soccer player with previous history of OSD is presented including a review of the recent literature.

Tie-Cross Acrylic External Skeletal Fixator: Technique and 13 cases

This study aims to describe a novel design of an acrylic external skeletal fixator system for stabilizing epiphyseal/metaphyseal fractures with or without articular involvement and evaluate its efficiency in 13 cases. Client-owned five cats and eight dogs with epiphyseal/metaphyseal fractures were included in this study. Cross pins with or without a transcortical pin were included in "J" shaped acrylic ESF, and this novel technique was called the Tie-cross ESF. The functional use of the extremity was evaluated, and the joint range of motion was assessed and compared with the contralateral side. Radiographs were evaluated for bone healing and possible complications. The time of the first use of the extremities changed from the day of surgery to the second day. Fracture healing occurred in 35-69 days, and ESFs were removed. No persistent lameness was observed, and total functional recovery was provided in all cases. Fixation of epiphyseal and metaphyseal fractures can be challenging, especially when it involves the articular surface. Including cross-pins in an acrylic ESF (Tie-cross ESF) is useful and can be considered an alternative technique for the stabilization of these fractures. This technique encourages the patient to use the extremity during the fracture healing and enables joint functions; therefore, additional physical therapy will not be necessary.

Surgical Correction of Posttraumatic Varus Deformity of the Distal Tibia Due to Medial Growth Arrest in Children and Adolescents: Surgical Technique

Background: Varus deformity of the distal tibia secondary to epiphyseal fracture and partial growth arrest is relatively common. Growth arrest of the medial part of the epiphysis leads to varus deformity of the distal tibia and fibular overgrowth. If the deformity is left untreated, the malalignment may lead to irreversible damage and early ankle joint osteoarthritis in the long term. Several surgical techniques have been described in the literature to achieve correction and prevent late complications. These include the closure of the remaining epiphysis and various osteotomies around the ankle, using internal and external fixation. Materials and Methods: We report a technique that includes medial open wedge supramalleolar osteotomy, insertion of a structural cortical allograft and fixation with an anatomically contoured locking plate, completion of closure of the distal tibial physis, and distal fibular epiphysiodesis to prevent tibiofibular relations distortion. Part of this protocol is osteotomy of the distal fibula to prevent excessive pressure on the talus, and at the end of the operation, fibular fixation should be performed as well. In children with open physis and potential for significant leg length discrepancy, we recommend closure of the contralateral physis of the distal tibia and fibula. To the best of our knowledge, precise details of this protocol have not been described. Conclusion: We believe that this protocol is a reliable, accurate, and relatively simple method that provides not only anatomic correction and restoration of the ankle joint to prevent early ankle and subtalar arthritis but also addresses late complications, such as ipsilateral fibular overgrowth and limb length discrepancy.

A posterior tibial slope angle over 12 degrees is critical to epiphyseal fracture of the proximal tibia: Three-dimensional finite element analysis

IntroductionThe effects of the proximal tibial slope angle on the proximal tibial epiphysis remain unknown. To elucidate those effects, we investigated the strain distribution in proximal tibial epiphysis with different proximal tibial slope angles and proximal tibial epiphysis closure periods using finite element analysis. Materials and methodsThe finite element models of the proximal tibia were reconstructed from CT images and consisted of cancellous/cortical bone and epiphyseal plate. The variations in proximal tibial slope angle (range: 6–16°) and four closure variations in proximal tibial epiphysis (open, semi-open, semi-closed, and closed) were prepared. The loading force on the medial and lateral joint surface, and the tensile force by the patellar tendon were applied to the models, and the distal area of the tibia was fixed. The ratio of the equivalent strain in semi-open/semi-closed proximal tibial epiphysis to the strain in open proximal tibial epiphysis on different proximal tibial slope angles were calculated. ResultsThe strain ratio between the semi-open/semi-closed and open proximal tibial epiphysis models indicated significant differences between 6 or 8° of proximal tibial slope angle and 12, 14, and 16° of proximal tibial slope angle models. In the increased proximal tibial slope angle model, a hoop-shaped strain in the closing proximal tibial epiphysis was found, and the maximum strain was found in the tibial tubercle. DiscussionDuring epiphyseal closure, adolescents with an increased proximal tibial slope angle over 12° are significantly at risk for suffering from proximal tibial epiphyseal fractures compared with those under 10°.

Clinical characteristics of 1124 children with epiphyseal fractures

BackgroundIn this study, to provide a theoretical basis for understanding the clinical characteristics of epiphyseal fractures in children and improving their management, we explored and analyzed the proportions of different types of epiphyseal fractures in children and evaluated the causes of injury and epidemiological characteristics.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed children younger than 18 years with fresh epiphyseal fractures who were admitted to our hospital from July 2015 to February 2020. Demographic information, injury mechanisms, fracture characteristics, fracture classification and surgical information were collected.ResultsA total of 1124 pediatric patients (1147 epiphyseal fractures), including 789 boys and 335 girls, were included in this study. Epiphyseal fractures were classified as Salter-Harris type II (1002 cases), type IV (105 cases), type III (25 cases), Salter-Harris type I (14 cases), and Salter-Harris type V (1 case). The number of fracture sites peaked in the adolescent group (440 cases). The most three common sites of epiphyseal fractures were the distal radius (460 cases) in which Salter-Harris type II fractures were the most common (454 cases) and Salter-Harris type I (3 cases), Salter-Harris type IV (2 cases), Salter-Harris type III was the least common (1 case). Followed by phalanges of fingers (233 cases) in which Salter-Harris type II fractures were the most common (224 cases) and Salter-Harris type IV (4 cases), Salter-Harris type I (3 cases), Salter-Harris type III fractures were the least common (2 cases). Distal humerus (146 cases) in which Salter-Harris type II fractures were the most common (95 cases), followed by Salter-Harris type IV (49 cases), Salter-Harris type I fractures were the least common (2 cases). The most three important causes of fractures were falls (720 patients), car accident injuries (68 patients), and basketball falls (43 patients). Among the 1124 children with epiphyseal fractures, 1058 were treated mainly by surgery and the ratio of open and closed reduction was 1:5.3. Eighty-eight patients showed an interval > 72 h between the injury and the hospital visit. Among these 88 patients, the most common fracture type was distal radial epiphyseal fracture (32 cases), and all fractures were of Salter-Harris type II.ConclusionsThe epidemiological characteristics of epiphyseal fractures in children indicate the need to strengthen health and safety education and protective measures to prevent the occurrence of these fractures in children. In addition, emergency surgeons and orthopedic surgeons in general hospitals should strengthen their basic knowledge of diagnosing and treating epiphyseal injuries in children to reduce missed diagnoses, misdiagnoses or malpractice.

Delayed open surgery for distal radius epiphyseal plate fracture in children

ObjectivesThis study assessed the feasibility of open surgery and determined outcome predictors for late management of epiphyseal plate fracture of the distal radius in children. MethodsThis retrospective study included 25 patients (22 male, 3 female) who underwent open surgery for late management of epiphyseal plate fracture of the distal radius. Wrist function was evaluated on Cooney score. Potential predictors comprised age, gender, fracture type, days after injury (DAI), degree of violence (DOV), and dorsal angulation before surgery (DABS). ResultsOverall, wrist function after surgery was classified as excellent for 16 patients (64%), good for 6 (24%), and fair for 3 (12%). The rate of excellent wrist function was 86.7% (13/15) in children older than 10 years but only 40% (4/10) for those aged under 10 years (p = 0.0280). Cooney score correlated positively with age, but there was no correlation with gender, fracture type, DAI, DOV or DABS. ConclusionOpen reduction surgery for late management of distal radius epiphyseal fracture yielded good results in patients aged over 10 years. Level of evidenceIII.

Medical Rehabilitation in Patient with Post ORIF et causa Neglected Epiphyseal Fracture Distal Radius-Ulna Sinistra: A Case Report

Distal radius-ulna fracture is one of the most common human osseous injuries, with incidence rate increasing worldwide. There are two peaks of prevalence: the first around the 10th and the second around the 60th year of life. During childhood, they are among the most common pediatric fractures accounting for 19.9 to 35.8% of all pediatric fractures. We reported a case of a boy 13 years old diagnosed as post open reduction internal fixation distal radius ulna et causa epiphyseal fracture. He came to rehabilitation outpatient clinic with chief complaint pain on his left forearm. He underwent a surgery two weeks ago at the distal radius ulna. The surgeon did osteotomy on ulna and then fixated with plate and screw. On physical examination, there were pain and range of motion limitation mainly on the forearm and wrist joint. The patient was treated with low level laser therapy at the surgical wound to promote healing and decrease edema, initial digital motion exercise along with active range of motion of the uninvolved joints. He was also educated about icing and medicamentation if pain still persisted. Once adequate bony healing had occurred, active, active-assisted, progressive passive wrist motion, and strengthening exercise using resistance were performed to maximize the result. At the end of rehabilitation program, there was great improvement on pain and also range of motion improvement. Albeit, there was still a slight range of motion limitation on ulnar deviation and wrist extension by 5 degrees. In conclusion, rehabilitation program is very beneficial in treating post-surgery patient using modalities and exercises to improve functional function. Keywords: epiphyseal fracture; radius-ulna; medical rehabilitation