Plastic deformation in pediatric fractures: mechanism and treatment

J Pediatr Orthop. 1989 May-Jun;9(3):310-4.

Abstract

The plastic deformation often observed in children's long bone fractures is due largely to the complex nature of the molecular and histologic aspects of pediatric bone. Pediatric cortical bone has a lower mineral content than adult bone, accounting in part for its different material properties. Although plasticity allows children's long bones to absorb more energy prior to fracture, a significant deformity may persist after injury. An algorithm and technique for treatment of plastic deformation of the radius and ulna, the two most commonly involved bones in plastic deformation, are reviewed.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Age Factors
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Bone Development*
  • Bone and Bones / cytology
  • Bone and Bones / pathology*
  • Bone and Bones / ultrastructure
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Elasticity
  • Fractures, Bone / pathology
  • Fractures, Bone / physiopathology*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn