1
(NRNP 6541) i Human: Andrew Chen latest update 2023-
2024
, 2
i Human: Andrew Chen
PRIMARY DIAGNOSIS:
S89.021A: Salter-Harris type 2 physeal fracture of the right distal tibia.
The Salter-Harris (SH) Classification System is a way to grade fractures that involve the growth plate
(physis). Seventy-five % of lower extremity fractures in children are SH type 2. (Levine et al., 2022) When a
Pt presents with ankle symptomsa detailed history and physical examination are crucial. Although a nurse
practitioner may provide initial care and refer to a pediatric orthopedic specialist, obtaining details about
the trauma may help narrow down the differentials and testing needed. In addition, a basic understanding
of the pediatric anatomy can leadto a better understanding of the mechanism of injury. Bone growth is
not completefor a male until somewhere between the ages of 14 to 17 years old. Growth plates are made
of cartilage and as the child ages, the cartilage hardens into bone which isless flexible and rubbery. (Su &
Larson, 2015) AC is 14 years old and because his growth plates are still primarily cartilage, the risk of SH
fracture is high. AC presented with right ankle pain, swelling and bruising. On exam, his inability to
walk/bear weight and the presence of right ankle bony tenderness make a fracture much more likely.
(Levine et al., 2022)
(NRNP 6541) i Human: Andrew Chen latest update 2023-
2024
, 2
i Human: Andrew Chen
PRIMARY DIAGNOSIS:
S89.021A: Salter-Harris type 2 physeal fracture of the right distal tibia.
The Salter-Harris (SH) Classification System is a way to grade fractures that involve the growth plate
(physis). Seventy-five % of lower extremity fractures in children are SH type 2. (Levine et al., 2022) When a
Pt presents with ankle symptomsa detailed history and physical examination are crucial. Although a nurse
practitioner may provide initial care and refer to a pediatric orthopedic specialist, obtaining details about
the trauma may help narrow down the differentials and testing needed. In addition, a basic understanding
of the pediatric anatomy can leadto a better understanding of the mechanism of injury. Bone growth is
not completefor a male until somewhere between the ages of 14 to 17 years old. Growth plates are made
of cartilage and as the child ages, the cartilage hardens into bone which isless flexible and rubbery. (Su &
Larson, 2015) AC is 14 years old and because his growth plates are still primarily cartilage, the risk of SH
fracture is high. AC presented with right ankle pain, swelling and bruising. On exam, his inability to
walk/bear weight and the presence of right ankle bony tenderness make a fracture much more likely.
(Levine et al., 2022)
