Surgical outcome of distal tibia Salter Harris II fracture in osteopetrosis patient.

INTRODUCTION: Osteopetrosis is a rare genetic disorder characterized by increased bone density. This condition is clinically manifested with a brittle intramedullary structure and reduced bone toughness, increasing the risk of fracture. A limited case has been reported on the management of physeal fracture in patients with osteopetrosis. The objective of this study is to report a rare osteopetrosis patient who sustains Salter-Harris II at the distal tibia with its long-term follow-up along with its literature review.

PRESENTATION OF CASE: We report a case of a four-year-old boy with an established a diagnosis of osteopetrosis brought by the parents to the emergency department after sustaining a fall while playing in the playground. Radiological examination revealed a Salter-Harris type II distal tibial fracture. The patient underwent closed reduction and fixation using the cannulated screw. 18-month postoperative patients have an uneventful healing.

DISCUSSION: Osteopetrosis is caused by impaired osteoclast function and differentiation, leading to impaired in remodelling. Salter-Harris type II distal tibial fracture can be treated by either closed reduction or open reduction. A closed reduction was performed successfully with cannulated screw in his patient.

CONCLUSION: There is a delayed union of fracture in osteopetrosis patient. This will increase the risk of displacement which will eventually resulted in growth disturbance. Delayed weight bearing and stable fixation is highly recommended.