Fracture in Children

Fracture in Children

Spinal fractures in children are less prevalent than in adults. Fractures are less likely in children because their vertebrae are more elastic than those of adults. Fractures can occur as a result of car accidents, falls from great heights, and sports injuries.

Spinal cord injury without fracture (SCIWORA): This is a pediatric injury. In children, the spine is more flexible than the spinal cord. The spine can endure lengthening after trauma, but the spinal cord cannot and is harmed. While imaging technologies cannot detect a bone fracture, spinal cord damage can be shown on MRI. The majority of the time, paralysis occurs. It is difficult to recover.

Neck fractures: These can happen after diving into a pool or other similar accidents, especially in the summer. It has the potential to cause nerve damage. Surgery or external (halo) fixation may be required depending on the kind of fracture and spinal damage.

Back and lumbar spine injuries can develop as a result of significant trauma, such as a car collision. It might manifest as vertebral collapse, burst fracture, or fracture-dislocation.

Collapse fractures do not cause nerve injury and usually respond well to corset treatment and do not require surgery.
Nerve injury may occur in burst fractures. If there is damage to the ligaments behind the vertebra along with the explosion, surgery is performed. If the connective tissue is intact, plaster or corset treatment is applied.
Fractures and dislocations of the vertebrae often cause nerve injury. At the same time, the integrity of the vertebra is significantly impaired. Therefore, these fractures are usually treated with surgery.

How to recognize a spinal fracture in a child?

They frequently occur as a result of a severe trauma. They are in excruciating discomfort. Depending on the site of the fracture, they may be unable to move their arms and legs if they have a nerve injury. In this scenario, they should be brought to the nearest hospital as soon as possible, preferably by ambulance. At the hospital, X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs will be used to confirm the diagnosis.

How does a spinal fracture in a child heal?

Spinal fractures in children heal faster and with fewer complications than in adults. In the absence of nerve injury, it is unlikely to have long-term consequences.