Distribution of physeal and nonphyseal fractures in 2,650 long-bone fractures in children aged 0-16 years.

The distribution of 2,650 long-bone fractures in children is presented. Fractures involving the humerus, radius, ulna, femur, tibia, and fibula were classified according to Salter and Harris. Growth plate injuries accounted for 30% of fractures. Nonphyseal fractures occurred twice as often in the upper extremity as in the lower extremity. Girls with physeal fractures on the average were 1.5 years younger than boys with the same type of fracture in the same location.