Related Experiment Videos
Orthopaedic Fixation Devices Used in Children: A Radiologist's Guide
Hailey Allen1, Kirkland W Davis2, Kenneth Noonan3
1Department of Radiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.
Insights
Pediatric orthopedic fixation devices, including screws, plates, and rods, are crucial for fracture repair in children. Understanding their unique applications and growth plate considerations aids radiologists in diagnosing complications.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Radiology
Background:
- Pediatric fractures often require surgical intervention for anatomical alignment.
- Unique pediatric considerations, such as open growth plates and healing potential, influence surgical approaches.
- Skeletally immature patients necessitate careful protection of growth plates to prevent long-term disturbances.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review common orthopedic fixation devices used in pediatric fracture management.
- To emphasize the principles, mechanisms, and applications of these devices in children.
- To enhance radiologists' diagnostic confidence and ability to anticipate complications.
Main Methods:
- Review of commonly encountered orthopedic fixation devices (screws, intramedullary devices, plates).
- Discussion of miscellaneous devices for malalignment and growth guidance (epiphysiodesis plates, osteotomy plates, growing rods).
- Emphasis on device mechanisms and pediatric applications.
Main Results:
- Detailed review of standard fixation devices like screws, intramedullary nails, and plates in pediatric populations.
- Explanation of specialized devices including epiphysiodesis plates, proximal femur osteotomy plates, and spinal magnetic growing rods.
- Focus on the specific application and function of each device in pediatric orthopedics.
Conclusions:
- Understanding pediatric orthopedic devices is essential for effective fracture management.
- Knowledge of these devices aids radiologists in interpreting imaging and identifying potential complications.
- This review aims to improve diagnostic accuracy and patient care through better understanding of orthopedic implants in children.
Abstract:
Fractures are common in children with some requiring surgical reduction and fixation to maintain anatomical alignment. Although various surgical techniques and principles are shared between children and adults, certain unique considerations in children can influence the surgical approach and device selection. In particular, for skeletally immature children, it is of utmost importance to protect certain critical open growth plates because permanent injury can produce severe growth disturbances. The often robust healing response and potential limited patient compliance can also influence the treatment algorithm and decision making. Commonly encountered orthopaedic fixation devices, including screws, intramedullary devices, and plates, are reviewed with an emphasis on their mechanism and application in children. Additional miscellaneous devices that are commonly used to treat malalignment and guide bone growth including epiphysiodesis plates, proximal femur osteotomy plates, and spinal magnetic growing rods are also reviewed. The goal of this article is to provide a basic understanding of the principles and mechanisms of different types of pediatric orthopaedic devices and thereby improve the radiologist's diagnostic confidence and allow better anticipation of complications.