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Early remodeling in children's forearm fractures.
I H Qairul1, B A Kareem, A B Tan
1Orthopaedic Unit, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 8th Floor, Grand Seasons Avenue, 72, Jalan Pahang, 53000, Kuala Lumpur.
The Medical Journal of Malaysia
|October 23, 2003
Summary
Forearm fractures in children heal quickly, with significant bone remodeling potential. Doctors can accept greater angulation in younger patients, especially in proximal and distal fractures, allowing for natural correction over time.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic surgery
- Pediatric orthopaedics
- Paediatric trauma
Background:
- Forearm fractures are common pediatric injuries, often resulting from falls on an outstretched arm.
- Determining acceptable angulation and predicting remodeling in pediatric forearm fractures presents a clinical challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the remodeling potential of pediatric forearm fractures.
- To establish guidelines for acceptable angulation in different fracture locations.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study of 100 consecutive pediatric forearm fracture cases.
- Data collected from patients admitted to the Children's Orthopaedic Ward at Hospital Kuala Lumpur between 1997 and 1998.
Main Results:
- All fractures achieved union within 3 to 6 weeks.
- An average remodeling rate of 2.5 degrees/month was observed, with proximal fractures showing the highest potential.
- Specific remodeling rates were 1.5 degrees/month for midshaft and 2.5 degrees/month for distal/proximal fractures.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric forearm fractures exhibit significant early remodeling potential.
- Recommended acceptable angulation: 10-20 degrees for midshaft and 20-30 degrees for metaphyseal fractures.