Undisplaced fractures of the distal third of the radius in children: an innocent fracture?

Abstract

A series of 107 undisplaced or minimally displaced distal third radial fractures in children were assessed to try to identify the incidence and the factors associated with displacement. Of 27 fractures showing a volar (pronation) pattern, there were no cases of progression of the deformity. Of the 80 fractures showing a dorsal (supination) pattern, 22.5 per cent progressed. Of the unicortical fractures, 13.6 per cent showed a progression of the deformity compared with 47.6 per cent of the bicortical fractures. Of the unicortical fractures, 7.1 per cent of those showing a dorsal buckle displaced compared with 29.4 per cent of those with a cortical breach.