Diagnostic imaging of pediatric skeletal trauma

Abstract

Because many injuries to the pediatric skeleton are unique and can present with only subtle radiographic abnormalities, familiarity with their appearance can aid in accurate diagnosis. These include physeal injuries, incomplete fractures, and avulsion injuries. Recognition of characteristic fractures also allows correct identification of a battered child. As illustrated in examples of injury to the elbow, an organized search for clues to abnormal alignment is particularly helpful in the evaluation of pediatric skeletal trauma.