The potential consequences of a growth plate fracture in a crash 

If your child comes out of a serious car crash with a broken bone or two, you may feel relieved that they weren’t more seriously injured. However, some bone fractures in growing children can have long-term consequences. They require extensive treatment, including multiple surgeries.

That’s especially true if the fracture involves a growth plate. Let’s take a look at what a growth plate fracture can mean for your child – and for you.

What are growth plates, and how are fractures diagnosed?

Growth plates are areas of cartilage located primarily near the end of longer bones in the legs, forearms, hands and fingers of a child. As children grow, these areas harden and take shape. Until then, however, they are highly susceptible to fracture. In fact, about 30% of childhood fractures involve growth plates.

Early medical evaluation of a child after a crash or any accident, like a fall, is crucial to determining whether a growth plate has been fractured. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans are better at identifying these fractures than traditional X-rays. 

It’s wise to have these scans done even if you’re not certain there’s a fracture if a child has suffered an injury to an area where there’s a growth plate. If a growth plate fracture goes undiagnosed and therefore untreated, they could end up with a shortened or malformed extremity and a permanent disability.

Treating a growth plate fracture

While some growth plate fractures only need a cast to heal properly, one or more surgeries may be necessary. This is just one reason why it’s important not to agree to a settlement with an at-fault driver’s insurer until you know the extent of your medical expenses as well as other damages, like pain and suffering. 

There can be a lot of pressure to agree to a quick settlement that might sound fair – especially if you’re already facing hospital and other bills as the result of a crash. Getting experienced legal guidance as soon as possible can help you advocate for the compensation you’re due.