Trampoline fracture of the proximal tibial metaphysis in children may not progress into valgus: a report of seven cases and a brief review.

BACKGROUND

Fracture of the proximal tibial metaphysis in children is a rare injury but notorious for carrying the risk of subsequent valgus deformity of the tibia.

HYPOTHESIS: Trampoline-caused fracture of the proximal tibial metaphysis in children may not progress into valgus.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

We followed up six children who collectively sustained seven fractures of the proximal tibial metaphysis while trampolining with other heavier and/or older children. Initial and follow-up x-rays were reviewed by an orthopaedic surgeons and two radiologists.

RESULTS

None of the patients developed valgus deformity with follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Trampoline is associated with a specific type of injury to the proximal tibia when children are trampolining with other heavier children even without falling off the trampoline. This fracture is linear and complete, often non-displaced. Unlike "other" proximal tibial metaphyseal fractures, trampoline-associated proximal tibial metaphysical fracture in children is not associated with a risk of subsequent valgus deformity.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 4.

TYPE OF STUDY: case series.