Paediatrics

Paediatrics is actually quite a large and complex area, and a large section of the musculoskeletal pathologies is outside the scope of undergraduate studies. However, there are certain things that should be revised. From the trauma perspective a few injuries should e recognised in particular the possibility of non-accidental injury should be on every doctor’s radar. Electively certain conditions should be known about, especially hip disease such as CDH and Perthes, but also talipes and scoliosis.

Common Paediatric Injuries

There are three types of fracture that you should be aware of. These are injuries to the growth plate (physis), supracondylar fractures and greenstick fractures. If you see any child who is injured you must always consider the possibility of non-accidental injury.

Book chapter

Paediatric Hip Disease

There are three major paediatric hip diseases that you should know about. These are:

  1. Perthes Disease
  2. Slipped Upper Femoral Epiphysis
  3. Development Dysplasia of the Hip (previously known as congenital dislocation of the hip or CDH)

Book chapter

Talipes

Talipes is more correctly referred to as congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV). It is a relatively common condition and to fully understand it requires a complex understanding of the anatomy involved. You should however know the basics including how to recognise it and the basics of management.

Book chapter

 

Scoliosis

Scoliosis occurs for a wide range of reasons in children. We will concentrate on Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis as well as covering differential diagnosis for the condition.

Book chapter