ABSTRACT
The Salter-Harris classification system categorizes pediatric fractures in relation to the physis. A Salter-Harris type III fracture occurs from the physis extending to the epiphysis. Tillaux fractures are a type of Salter-Harris type III fracture that occurs due to incomplete fusion of the growth plate and includes the anterolateral tibial epiphysis. This specific fracture is unique to adolescents due to the anterior tibiofibular ligament's strength in relation to the growth plate, causing avulsion of the tibial fragment. The settings for a Tillaux fracture and a Salter-Harris type III fracture are uncommon due to the mechanism of injury, and it is incredibly rare to have two separate fractures of these classifications in the same ankle. In this case study, a 16-year-old male presented to the emergency department after sustaining trauma to the right ankle via a skateboarding accident. Initial radiographs showed no evidence of acute fracture, and CT imaging was performed. CT scan of the right lower leg found a Tillaux fracture of the distal right tibia with a 2 mm displacement and a nondisplaced Salter-Harris type III distal fibula fracture. Closed reduction and percutaneous screw fixation of the distal tibia fracture were performed. The repair of this fracture was complicated due to the presence of two distinct fractures. This case study aims to provide a viable option to successfully repair this complex presentation as well as explain imaging findings that differentiate this fracture from other pathologies that are not managed operatively.
ABSTRACT
Distal radius buckle fractures (DRBFs) are the most common pediatric fractures and resemble the rounded portion of a Greek pillar or torus. They result from compressive forces applied to a child's highly plastic radius. DRBFs lack cortical and physeal disruption, which makes them relatively stable. In this review, we discuss angled DRBFs, a hypothesized subset of buckle fractures that results from an off-center compressive force. Some authors refute the existence of angled DRBFs, instead proposing new criteria for DRBF classification: measuring more than 1 cm away from the physis with two to three inflection points. Without universal diagnostic criteria, misdiagnosis is common, and the utilization of flexible treatment modalities is infrequent. Rigid immobilization with short-arm casting continues to be the mainstay of treatment in clinical practice. Yet, new protocols implementing removable elastic bandages have had comparable results to casting, including reduced healthcare expenditure, less stiffness, and improved convenience and patient tolerability. Despite the discrepancies in categorizing DRBFs, complication rates remain low, and diagnostic confusion insignificantly affects clinical outcomes. Angled DRBFs have been theorized to have intraphyseal extension, making them unstable Salter-Harris fractures. Radiographic evidence supporting or denying this claim is limited. Further research is essential to determine the stability of the angled DRBF subtype and whether they should continue to be defined and managed as buckle fractures.
