Forearm Fractures in Children

The forearm is comprised of two long bones: the radius and ulna.  One or more of these bones can be fractured quite commonly in children after a fall.  Usually when we refer to forearm fractures, we mean that there is a fracture in center of the bone(s), near the middle part of the forearm.

Many times these fractures can be repositioned with sedation or anesthetic and a cast is applied.  The fractures are then monitored regularly with xray to ensure an acceptable position is maintained thoughout healing. Sometimes, small amounts of correction is required by modifying/wedging the cast.

…

Note that there are other variants of forearm injuries that occur in children. Monteggia injuries typically involve a fracture of the ulna bone but have a dislocation of the upper part of the radius at the elbow.