Fractures of the Elbow in Children

Fractures about the elbow in children are different from those in adults. Bone growth after the fracture is responsible for the difference. Continued growth is important for several reasons: A fracture increases the blood supply to the bone, which accelerates the rate of growth; this tends to equalize shortness from overriding. Growth will correct some angular deformities near the ends of long bones. However, a fracture involving an epiphyseal cartilage may retard growth so as to cause shortening or angular deformity. Fractures at the elbow joint are very common in children. They follow patterns so remarkably constant that they may be discussed in groups. While each fracture must be evaluated and treated individually, certain general rules may be established. In children, fractures may be well treated by simple conservative means more frequently than in adults. The exceptions to this are almost all fractures at the elbow joint. Fractures of the