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Updated: Jul 28, 2026

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A Spine Robotic-Assisted Navigation System for Pedicle Screw Placement
Published on: May 11, 2020
The pediatric spine: anatomical and dynamic considerations preceding manipulation.
1Department of Family Medicine, University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, Fla., USA.
Summary
Spinal manipulation can cause subtle growth plate fractures in children. These injuries are often missed due to their hidden nature, suggesting under-diagnosis in pediatric cases.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Pediatric medicine
- Chiropractic research
Background:
- Spinal manipulation is a common treatment for various conditions.
- While generally safe, potential complications exist, particularly in pediatric patients.
- Growth plate injuries are a concern in pediatric musculoskeletal trauma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the under-recognized risk of subtle growth plate fractures in children undergoing spinal manipulation.
- To emphasize the importance of considering these occult injuries in pediatric patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of pediatric cases involving spinal manipulation.
- Analysis of injury patterns consistent with growth plate trauma.
- Discussion of diagnostic challenges associated with subtle fractures.
Main Results:
- High-velocity spinal manipulation techniques may lead to subtle growth plate fractures in children.
- The occult nature of these fractures contributes to under-appreciation and under-diagnosis.
- Radiographic and clinical findings may be nonspecific, complicating diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric spinal manipulation carries a risk of subtle growth plate fractures.
- Increased clinical awareness and diagnostic vigilance are necessary to identify these injuries.
- Further research is warranted to fully understand the incidence and management of these complications.

