Childhood fractures are unlike adult fractures. The ability of the child to correct a deformity is remarkable, if rules are followed. Fractures need to be close to the joint, deformed in the direction of maximal movement of the joint, with sufficient years of growth ahead. Often, the fracture is more obvious on XR than direct observation.
Distal radius fractures can generally be expected to correct 30 degrees of deformity in boys up tot he age of 12.
Proximal humerus fractures can easily correct complete displacement or 45 degrees of angulation. The growth plate typically grows faster on one side to correct the angular deformity.
Midshaft forearm fractures do not remodel much. Some new bone is made and it smooths out the sharpest corners.
The actual shafts of the bone remain as angulated at 3 years as they did at six weeks.
We try hard to get these fractures as straight as possible. This deformity will need surgery to correct it.