Final answer:
Skeletal survey findings that suggest child abuse include multiple fractures in different stages of healing, epiphyseal separations, and specific injury patterns such as bucket handle or corner fractures. Skull and posterior rib fractures, as well as spiral fractures in long bones without adequate explanation, can also point towards non-accidental injury. These findings underscore the larger societal impact of child abuse on health care, education, and criminal systems.
Step-by-step explanation:
Skeletal survey findings suggestive of child abuse include multiple fractures at different healing stages, fractures of different ages, and classic metaphyseal lesions. Skull fractures may occur, and in some cases, posterior rib fractures can be found, which are highly specific for non-accidental trauma. Additionally, epiphyseal separations, rib fractures, and scapular fractures are also potential indicators of abuse.
Epiphyseal separations, which are uncommon injuries that can signal abusive trauma, should raise suspicion, especially without an adequate explanation fitting the developmental capabilities of the child. Similarly, evidence of spiral fractures to the long bones, such as the femur or humerus, often suggests a twisting mechanism of injury and can point towards non-accidental injury when there is no appropriate accidental explanation.
Bucket handle fractures or corner fractures, which are specific types of metaphyseal lesions, are highly suggestive of abuse, particularly in non-ambulatory children. Medical neglect may additionally manifest as growth delays or the failure to thrive, which can sometimes be seen radiographically as d. Abnormally weak bones prone to breakage or fracturing upon mild trauma. a. Such findings highlight the need to protect children from harm and underscore how child abuse consequences deeply affect not only the individual but society as a whole through their impact on health care, education, and criminal justice systems.