Salter-Harris Type IV physeal fracture of upper end of humerus, right arm digital illustration

Salter-Harris Type IV physeal fracture of upper end of humerus, right arm Save


ICD-10 code: S49.041

Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes

Understanding Salter-Harris Type IV Physeal Fracture of the Upper End of Humerus, Right Arm

Salter-Harris Type IV physeal fracture of the upper end of humerus, right arm is a rare injury that occurs in children and adolescents. It involves a fracture that extends through the growth plate of the humerus bone, causing damage to the growth plate and surrounding tissues. This type of injury can be serious and may require prompt medical attention.

The humerus bone is located in the upper arm and connects the shoulder to the elbow. The growth plate, also known as the physis, is a layer of cartilage at the end of the bone that allows for growth and development. In a Salter-Harris Type IV fracture, the fracture line extends through the growth plate and into the metaphysis, which is the wider part of the bone above the growth plate.

Symptoms of Salter-Harris Type IV Physeal Fracture

Symptoms of Salter-Harris Type IV physeal fracture of the upper end of humerus, right arm may include:

  1. Pain and swelling at the site of the injury
  2. Difficulty moving the arm or shoulder
  3. Deformity or misalignment of the arm
  4. Tenderness or bruising around the injury
Treatment Options for Salter-Harris Type IV Physeal Fracture

Treatment for Salter-Harris Type IV physeal fracture of the upper end of humerus, right arm may vary depending on the severity of the injury. In some cases, the injury may be treated with immobilization using a cast or brace. This allows the bone to heal and the growth plate to recover over time.

In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary. This may involve realigning the bone and repairing the growth plate to ensure proper growth and development. Rehabilitation exercises may also be recommended to help restore strength and mobility to the arm and shoulder.

Preventing Physeal Fractures in Children and Adolescents

Physeal fractures, including Salter-Harris Type IV physeal fracture of the upper end of humerus, right arm, are more common in children and adolescents due to the nature of their developing bones. However, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of these types of injuries, including:

  1. Encouraging children to participate in age-appropriate sports and activities
  2. Ensuring that children wear proper protective gear, such as helmets and pads, during sports and other physical activities
  3. Superv