Calving chain fractures. Radiographic assessment of healing.

Calving chain fractures are highly characteristic injuries that when treated by casting, exhibit a predictable healing pattern. By knowing how such fractures appear radiographically at 1, 2, and 3 months following injury, it is much easier to decide when the fracture has become strong enough to bear weight, thus avoiding recasting the leg. This article describes the appearance of calving chain fractures as they heal over time, and how they appear when they do not.