Question

If an immature child presents to the clinic with point tenderness over the distal physis of the wrist or ankle, but negative fracture by X-ray report or observation of films, your knowledge of the Salter-Harris fracture classification would identify which of the following fractures?

1) Salter Harris I
2) Salter Harris II
3) Salter Harris III
4) Salter Harris IV

Answer 1

An immature child with tenderness over the distal physis and a negative X-ray likely has a Salter-Harris I fracture, which involves separation at the growth plate and may not appear on initial X-rays.

Step-by-step explanation:

If an immature child presents with point tenderness over the distal physis of the wrist or ankle, with a negative X-ray for fractures, it most likely indicates a Salter-Harris I fracture. This type of fracture involves a separation of the physis or growth plate but does not include a break of the actual bone, which is why it may not be visible on an initial X-ray.

The Salter-Harris classification system categorizes fractures involving the growth plate, which only occur in pediatric patients. A Salter-Harris I fracture, while not visible on X-ray initially, may still cause significant tenderness at the growth plate location and swelling, necessitating a clinical diagnosis and potential follow-up imaging or other diagnostic measures.