Greenstick fracture

Case contributed by Sharifah Intan
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Fall while playing

Patient Data

Age: 4 years
Gender: Female

Both forearms

x-ray

Non-displaced, incomplete fracture of distal third of left radius. The rest of the bones on both sides are intact.

Case Discussion

This fracture pattern is consistent with a "greenstick fracture", as there is disruption of the cortex on the outer (convex) side with only bowing of the inner (concave) side of the fracture. It is typically seen in children, whose bones can bend more before breaking.

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.