Introduction to the Management of Fractures in Children

Abstract

Conservative management is important in most children's fractures. Open surgical methods may be necessary in a few specific injuries such as fractures of the lateral humeral condyle, fractures of the radial neck with severe displacement, and some fractures of the medial epicondyle.

Volkmann's ischemic contracture requires prompt surgical treatment if conservative measures fail. Other rare bone injuries in children, such as fracture of the femoral neck and osteochondral fracture within the knee joint, may require open operation.

Nonetheless, except for these uncommon situations, nature is on the side of the judicious physician who aids rather than impedes it.