ABSTRACT
Musculoskeletal injury in the child differs significantly from the adult, both in injury patterns seen and in the methods of treatment. Musculoskeletal injuries are also quite common in the multiply injured patient. Thus, an understanding of pediatric musculoskeletal injuries is crucial in the overall treatment of pediatric trauma patients. Nonaccidental trauma, or child abuse, is a serious cause of short- and long-term disability and death in the pediatric population. Compartment syndrome occurs when the pressure within a myofascial compartment increases to the point where circulation to the structures within that compartment is compromised. This can result in muscle and nerve ischemia, leading to profound disability. Open fractures make up approximately 2% of all fractures in children and, in severe cases, can be both life- and limb-threatening. Although representing a small percentage of pediatric injuries, traumatic amputations can lead to significant long-term disability.
