tibial fracture

Question 1

toddlers fracture

Answer 1

undisplayed spiral fractures of the tibial shaft are common in toddler and only require casting

Question 2

risk of compartment syndrome

Answer 2

much less in children tibial fractures than in adults

Question 3

what is accepted in children tibial shaft fractures

Answer 3

up to 10 degrees of angulation but greater degrees of angulation may need manipulation and casting

Question 4

what is required while cast is in place

Answer 4

multiple x-rays to ensure that the fracture does not drift into excessive angulation in the AP or lateral planes

Question 5

what should not be accepted in childrens tibial fractures

Answer 5

shortening or malrotation

Question 6

management of very unstable or open fractures

Answer 6

• felxibe intra-medullary nails
• plates and screws
• external fixation
• adolescents get an adult type intra-medullary screw