Talking about fractures in children is also talking about applying surgical techniques to superheroes. 😅
Most fractures in children are related to falls in the home environment, affecting the upper limbs (collarbone, wrist, forearm and elbow) to a greater extent. Importantly, trauma that causes a fracture is not always violent. A trip, for example, followed by a fall to the ground may be enough.
In relation to the bones of adults, the bones of children present important differences in determining the type of injury, treatment and prognosis in case of fracture. Is that children have bones with greater elasticity and porosity; the periosteum – connective tissue membrane that covers the bones externally – is more resistant and there is the presence of growth cartilages. In addition, as a child is growing, the body's ability to form and develop bones is superior to that of an adult.
If they witness the accident, parents or guardians must report to the doctor the situation and how the child fell or was hit. Likewise, informing the circumstance in which the child feels the most pain can contribute to the diagnosis: observe if she cries or cries when changing diapers or having her arm pressed, for example.
The treatment, outcome and prognosis of a fracture are related to factors such as the victim's age, severity, type and location of the trauma, training of the orthopedist and even individual characteristics of the injured child. Therefore, it is important that parents talk to the responsible orthopedist and are informed about the particularities of the treatment.
See below for some of the therapeutic possibilities
Immobilization: most fractures can be treated conservatively, with immobilization for an adequate time. Due to its remodeling capacity, the fractured ends do not need to be in full contact and perfect fit: deviations are acceptable, depending on the characteristics of the bone, the location of the fracture and the age of the child.
Reduction: Some displaced fractures need to be reduced (ie, put in place). This can be done under general, local, regional anesthesia or, in some cases, without the help of anesthetics. Although it seems aggressive, this method does not require hospitalization, in addition to anesthesia, and makes the pain go away very quickly.
Surgery: Certain fractures require surgery for proper placement of fracture fragments and/or fixation. This is achieved using materials such as pins, rods, plates or fasteners. Lesions affecting the joint, which affect the growth plate, open fractures and cases in which an artery injury (where a change in the color of the limb's extremity or loss of the pulse) is also required, also require a surgical procedure.
It is VERY important to be aware that information from other parents who have had children with “similar” fractures may not apply to that child. So be sure to look for an orthopedist as soon as possible.
Source: SBOT
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