Treatment of children with fractures of the distal metaepiphysis of the radius: A literature review

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Fractures of the distal metaepiphysis of the radius are among the most common injuries in pediatric patients. This results from the peculiarities of the anatomical structure and structure of the radial tissue in this area. AIM: This study aimed to analyze the literature on the treatment of children with fractures of the distal metaepiphysis of the radius. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Literatures on the treatment of children with fractures of the distal metaepiphysis of the radius were extracted from PubMed, eLibrary, and Google Scholar without language restrictions for the period from 1990 to 2024. RESULTS: In fractures of the distal metaepiphysis of the radius without displacement, the limb is immobilized. Displaced fractures require closed reduction and/or surgical treatment. For the treatment of stable fractures, specialists adhere to conservative techniques. The method of choice for the surgical treatment of unstable fractures should be minimally invasive osteosynthesis. The current gold standard for the surgical treatment of fractures of the distal metaepiphysis of the radius in children is closed reduction and intramedullary metal osteosynthesis with Kirschner wires, followed by plaster cast application. CONCLUSIONS: Currently, no consensus has been reached on the method of choice for the surgical treatment of fractures of the distal metaepiphysis of the radius in children. The results of treating children using the presented surgical techniques are contradictory, and high risks of developing intra- and postoperative complications are noted. Thus, conducting more research in this area and developing new and most effective surgical methods that can reduce the risk of complications and optimize the rehabilitation process for these patients remain relevant.