http://www.orthoinfo.org/fact/thr_report.cfm?Thread_ID=244&topcategory=C
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
The bones of children and adults share many of the same risks for injury. However, a child's bones are also subject to a unique injury called a growth plate fracture. Growth plate fractures often require immediate attention because the long-term consequences may include limbs that are crooked or of unequal length. Growth plate fractures must be watched carefully to ensure proper long-term results.