Final Answer:
Corner fractures primarily occur in the hypertrophic zone of the physis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Corner fractures, a common pediatric injury, predominantly manifest in the hypertrophic zone of the physis. The growth plate, or physis, comprises different zones—proliferative, hypertrophic, and ossification zones—each with distinct characteristics and roles in bone growth. When a force impacts the physis, the weaker hypertrophic zone, situated between the proliferative and ossification zones, tends to fail first due to its structural composition and vulnerability to shearing forces.
In the proliferative zone, chondrocytes actively divide, contributing to bone growth. Adjacent to this zone lies the hypertrophic zone, where chondrocytes mature and enlarge before calcification occurs. The architecture of the hypertrophic zone, with larger cells and decreased intercellular matrix, makes it more prone to fractures when subjected to stress.
Consequently, corner fractures, characterized by a triangular fragment at the edge of the bone, commonly occur at the junction between the hypertrophic and proliferative zones due to this structural weakness.
Understanding the specific location of corner fractures within the physis aids in accurate diagnosis and treatment strategies. By pinpointing their occurrence in the hypertrophic zone, physicians can better manage these injuries, considering the unique properties and healing mechanisms of this region within the growth plate. This comprehension is crucial in ensuring appropriate care and promoting optimal recovery in pediatric patients experiencing corner fractures.