Pediatric upper-extremity fractures

Abstract

Upper-extremity fractures account for more than half of childhood bony injuries. The frequency of injury increases with increasing mobility. The most common mechanism is a fall on an outstretched hand while playing. Optimal management requires knowledge of the normal anatomy and variants unique to pediatric bones. The physician needs to maintain a high level of suspicion for growth plate injuries because if unrecognized, these may result in growth arrest. Although the vast majority of pediatric upper-extremity fractures will heal rapidly with minimal intervention, physicians should be aware of the complications that can arise from these injuries.