What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Broken Elbow in Children
• Fractured Elbow in Children

What are Elbow Fractures in Children? (Definition/Background Information)

• An elbow fracture occurs, when one of the bones of the elbow joint is broken. The 3 bones that form the elbow joint include the humerus, ulna, and radius
• Elbow Fractures in Children are amongst the most common type of fractures observed in children and adolescents
• Children, who sustain an elbow fracture usually fall over and land on their outstretched hand, while attempting to brace themselves. The speed and force associated with the fall, causes the fracture
• Most Elbow Fractures in Children require a surgical correction. With proper treatment and care, the prognosis is excellent

Who gets Elbow Fractures in Children? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Elbow Fractures in Children may occur in children of any race, ethnic group, and gender; they are considered as a very common type of fracture injury
• Both boys and girls are equally susceptible to elbow fractures

What are the Risk Factors for Elbow Fractures in Children? (Predisposing Factors)

Common risk factors associated with Elbow Fractures in Children include:

• Participation in sports, such as football, basketball, soccer, wrestling, rugby, hockey, skiing, and snowboarding
• Trauma due to accidents and falls
• Children have a higher risk, due to the flexibility of their ligaments

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Elbow Fractures in Children? (Etiology)

A few causes of Elbow Fractures in Children include:

• Falling from a significant height; especially landing on one’s arm or elbow is one of the main causal factor of children sustaining elbow fractures
• Sports-related injury: Children or adolescents, who participate in sports, such as football, basketball, soccer, wrestling, rugby, hockey, skiing, and snowboarding
• Direct trauma: Children involved in a significant traumatic event, such as automobile, motorcycle, or even a bicycle accident

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Elbow Fractures in Children?

Elbow Fractures in Children may be very painful making it difficult to move the arm or elbow. The signs and symptoms include:

• Severe pain at the site, where the injury occurred
• Signs of bruising, swelling of the elbow/forearm/upper arm
• Stiffness or inability to move, bend, or extend the arm  or elbow
• Tenderness to touch
• In some rare cases, the pieces of bone may protrude through the skin

How are Elbow Fractures in Children Diagnosed?

The exams and tests the healthcare provider may use to diagnose Elbow Fractures in Children include:

• Physical examination: A thorough physical examination is important in identifying any noticeable deformities, swelling, and contusions, within the elbow. Individuals are expected to provide an explanation of the circumstances that caused the injury. In addition to this, a complete medical history can aid in arriving at a definitive diagnosis
• X-ray of the elbow: This diagnostic test helps provide a clear image of the bone, identify the exact location of the injury, determine the extent of the fracture, and how the fracture affects the surrounding bones and joints. Since, children are still in their growing phase, a physician may ask to have both elbows x-rayed, in order to make a comparison
• Computerized tomography (CT) scan of the elbow: Occasionally, a physician may order a CT scan, which takes a more detailed image of the elbow joint
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the elbow: An MRI is a more detailed scan that produces images of a child bones, joints, and soft tissues, with a greater clarity
• Bone scan: During a bone scan, a child is given a small, safe dose of radioactive material, inserted through an IV line. A physician can then look for any fractured bones, possible signs of infections, or even cancer, within the bones

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Elbow Fractures in Children?

Complications children may experience with elbow fractures include:

• Uneven growth: Since, children are still growing, a fracture in the growth plate could interfere with the regular/normal growth of bones, resulting in growth deformities of elbow bones
• Limited range of motion: Elbow fractures may lead to a child having restricted range of motion in their elbow joint
• Nerve or blood vessel damage: Permanent damage to nerves and blood vessels may seriously impair the functioning of the elbow or arm

How are Elbow Fractures in Children Treated?

The goals of treating Elbow Fractures in Children are to realign the bone, encourage rapid recovery, and help the child resume their regular/daily activities, as early as possible. Many elbow fractures require surgery, although some may be treated without any surgical intervention.

If there are no signs of displacement, then nonsurgical means can be used to treat a child’s elbow fracture. The nonsurgical treatment methods include:

• Splint or brace: A physician may prescribe some type of padded brace or cast, to help restrict elbow movement and promote quicker healing
• Ice: Applying ice to the elbow can help in reducing any pain or swelling
• Physical therapy: After the symptoms have abated, it is important to begin some light exercises. Physical therapy may help to restore strength, as well as improve flexibility in the muscles

Surgical treatment methods include:

• Closed reduction of Elbow Fractures in Children: Closed reduction is a surgical method that involves realigning the bone back to its original position, without making an incision at the fracture site. This procedure is usually performed under a local anesthesia
• Open reduction of Elbow Fractures in Children: Open reduction is a surgical intervention technique to realign the fractured bones. During this surgery, orthopedic devices, such as plates, screws, and rods, are used to maintain proper position of the bone, during the healing process

How can Elbow Fractures in Children be Prevented?

To prevent elbow fractures, children should be careful and consciously aware, while performing any physical activities, such as sports, or even some normal daily activities that could lead to situations involving accidents. Children must also be provided a safe environment to work, study, or play. Any possible dangers should also be anticipated and appropriate safety measures adopted.

A few ways to further help prevent unwanted injuries or Elbow Fractures in Children include:

• Build bone strength: Consuming foods rich in calcium, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese, help build bone strength. Regular diet with appropriate calcium-intake is recommended, even after such fractures
• Prevent falls: Wearing appropriate footwear, such as the proper shoe size, may help prevent accidents
• Use protective gear: Children or adolescents, who participate in any high-risk sports, should wear appropriate safety gear/equipment, to help prevent the possibility of elbow fractures

What is the Prognosis of Elbow Fractures in Children? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The majority of Elbow Fractures in Children heal without any serious complications; this may typically take about 6 weeks
• Children may resume sports activities or normal daily activities, when advised by their physician
• When properly treated and rehabilitated, a high percentage of children regain their full strength and range of motion in their injured elbow

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Elbow Fractures in Children:

• In addition to elbow fractures, forearm fractures in children are common injuries that account for roughly 50% of all fractures affecting children

The following article link will help you understand forearm fractures in children:

https://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/forearm-fracture-in-children/