Pediatric Orthopedic Trauma and Fracture Program

Fractures, or broken bones, are frequent in children, especially in the arm, wrist and shoulder areas. Fractures often occur from a fall or by playing sports. We specialize in the treatment of supracondylar humerus fractures, the most common elbow fracture in children. It is important to have a pediatric provider evaluate a possible broken bone, because it can sometimes affect growth plates and lead to abnormalities.

Signs of a fracture may include swelling, pain or deformity — typically a bump or change in bone shape.

Casting is the most common method of treatment, although surgery may be necessary in some cases.

A nonunion is a bone that does not heal properly. While most bones heal on their own, certain factors — such as too much movement or too little blood flow — can prevent proper healing. Diabetes, anemia and general poor health may also lead to a nonunion.

A nonunion can occur anywhere but is common in the femur, tibia and humerus. We offer both surgical and nonsurgical treatment methods. This can include a bone stimulator device, bone grafting or revision surgery.

A malunion is a bone that heals in the wrong position. Failed treatment or a fracture that goes untreated may result in a malunion. A malunion can cause severe pain and limited function, and it will likely require treatment from our orthopedic traumatology specialists.

Treatment methods range from physical therapy to post-traumatic reconstructive procedures that involve osteotomies, or cuts in the bone, to restore alignment and proper healing. Because a child’s bones are still developing, natural growth can sometimes correct a deformity or malunion. We monitor the injury closely and strive to avoid surgery when possible.

Bone infections in children are particularly difficult to treat. Also known as osteomyelitis, infections can spread from blood or soft tissue, or can originate in the bone itself.

Children have a greater tendency to develop bone infections because their bodies are growing rapidly. Our multidisciplinary team of orthopedic trauma surgeons, infectious disease specialists and radiologists follow a dedicated protocol to combat bone infections.

A complex fracture is a particularly severe break that can cause damage to multiple bones, soft tissue, tendons, ligaments or joints. This type of injury often requires emergency orthopedic care. Treatment typically requires surgery. Our team specializes in complex fractures of the pelvis and hip socket.

Deformities can cause pain and hinder your child's ability to function. Your child may be born with a deformity, such as an arm or leg that’s too long or short. A deformity may also be the result of a traumatic accident. Our pediatric orthopedic trauma specialists work to correct the deformity and restore balance, form and function. We can correct some deformities with nonsurgical treatment, but many skeletal issues require surgery.

Compartment syndrome is typically the result of a muscle injury that causes the muscle to swell. The compartment that holds the muscle can't stretch, so the swollen muscle doesn't have any room to spread out. Pressure in the muscles increases, causing pain. Additionally, essential nutrients may no longer be reaching the muscle and nerves. If left untreated, compartment syndrome may lead to tissue death, which requires surgery.