Related Topics
Care of Casts and Splints (http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00095)
Fractures Overview (http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00139)
Growth Plate Fractures (http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00040)
Internal Fixation for Fractures (http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00196)
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Copyright 2007 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
Forearm Fractures in Children
Children love to run, hop, skip, jump and tumble. But if they fall onto an outstretched arm, they could break one or both of the bones in the forearm. Forearm fractures account for 40 to 50 percent of all childhood fractures. Fractures can occur near the wrist at the farthest (distal) end of the bone, in the middle of the forearm, or near the elbow at the top (proximal) end of the bone.
This child's forearm fracture has resulted in a bent appearance of the forearm. It will require a manipulation to restore normal alignment prior to placement in a cast.
(Courtesy of Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children)
Types of fractures include:
The hand, wrist, arm, and elbow can all be injured during a fall on an outstretched arm. To determine exactly what injuries occurred, the doctor will probably want to see X-rays of the elbow and wrist as well as the forearm. The doctor will also test to make sure that the nerves and circulation in the hand and fingers are not affected. Symptoms of a forearm fracture include:
Treatment depends on the type of fracture and the degree of displacement. Nonsurgical TreatmentSome may simply need the support of a splint or cast until they heal. If the bones do not break through the skin, the physician may be able to push (manipulate) them into proper alignment without surgery. Surgical TreatmentSurgery to align the bones and secure them in place may be required if:
After the bones are aligned, the physician may use pins, metal implants, or a cast to hold them in place until they have healed. A stable fracture, such as a buckle fracture, may require three to four weeks in a cast. A more serious injury, such as a Monteggia fracture-dislocation, may need to be immobilized for six to ten weeks. If the fracture disrupts the growth plate at the end of the bone, the physician will probably want to watch it carefully for several years to ensure that growth proceeds normally. Last reviewed and updated: October 2007
AAOS does not review or endorse accuracy or effectiveness of materials, treatments or physicians.
Copyright 2007 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
Related Topics
Care of Casts and Splints (http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00095)
Fractures Overview (http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00139)
Growth Plate Fractures (http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00040)
Internal Fixation for Fractures (http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00196)
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