Imaging of pediatric musculoskeletal trauma: Age-specific considerations and challenges.

Pediatric musculoskeletal trauma differs significantly from adult injuries due to the dynamic and evolving nature of the growing skeleton. The presence of open growth plates (physes), secondary ossification centers, and a more elastic bone structure contributes to unique injury patterns and imaging findings in children. Proper interpretation of pediatric imaging requires an in-depth understanding of age-specific anatomy, biomechanics, and normal developmental variants. This review provides a comprehensive overview of pediatric bone physiology and fracture types, including the Salter-Harris classification, special pediatric fractures, elbow ossification, avulsion injuries, and conditions related to repetitive stress. Additionally, we address the critical topic of non-accidental trauma, underscoring the radiologist's role in early detection. Through an anatomical and pathophysiological lens, this paper explores the challenges and strategies for accurate diagnosis in pediatric trauma imaging.