Paediatric fractures around the knee.

ABSTRACT

Paediatric fractures around the knee are not common but their incidence seems to be increasing as a result of the increasing number of children participating in sports. Given the characteristics of the growing skeleton, specific fractures only occur in children. Diagnosis is mainly based on history, clinical examination and plain radiographs. Advanced imaging may be required in special fracture types. Although many of these injuries can be managed non-operatively, early referral to a specialist team is necessary to avoid delays in surgical management and to reduce the risk of acute or late complications.