Category: Pediatrics
Posted: 3/29/2024 by Rachel Wiltjer, DO
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Standard practice regarding various pediatric fractures has started to shift over the last several years, often to less restrictive means of treatment. Torus (buckle) fractures of the distal radius are one of the most common pediatric fractures and tend to heal very well with minimal intervention.
The FORCE study (FOrearm fracture Recovery in Children Evaluation), a multicenter study out of the UK, was conducted to compare rigid immobilization (splinting) to a soft bandage used as needed per family discretion for treatment of these fractures. There was no different in outcomes of self-reported pain, function, quality of life, complications, or school absences. UK orthopedic guidelines have been updated to reflect a recommendation against rigid immobilization as well as against any need for specialist follow-up. American guidelines are slower to follow suit, but in recent years have transitioned to an approach of a removable brace.
Take Home: Pediatric torus fractures of the distal radius likely do not require immobilization and can be managed with self-limited activity instead. Practice in the US is in flux, but it is reasonable to manage with a removable brace or soft dressing as well as pediatrician follow up.
Hussain, M, Perry, D, and Messahel, S. Summary of Recent Advances in Management of Torus Fracture of the Distal Radius in Children_. Arch Dis Child_. Epub ahead of print
Knight R, Dritsaki M, Mason J, Perry DC, Dutton SJ. The Forearm Fracture Recovery in Children Evaluation (FORCE) trial: statistical and health economic analysis plan for an equivalence randomized controlled trial of treatment for torus fractures of the distal radius in children. Bone Jt Open. 2020 Jun 9;1(6):205-213.
