title: Salter-Harris I fractures of the distal radius misdiagnosed as wrist sprain.
abstract: Over a period of 5 years, 65 children under 12 years of age were diagnosed as having "wrist sprain" at the American University of Beirut Medical Center, Emergency Department. Thirty-eight children were reevaluated; 33 patients (86.8%) were diagnosed as having a Salter-Harris I fracture of the distal radius that necessitated further treatment to relieve symptoms and allow early wrist function. The diagnosis of "wrist sprain" is often inadequate in establishing a proper treatment regimen. Rather, by taking a careful history, performing an exacting examination, and utilizing appropriate diagnostic aids, an accurate diagnosis of wrist injury can be established.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, American University of Beirut-Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.
authors.forename: R S
authors.initials: RS
authors.lastname: Musharafieh
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Macari
mesh_terms: D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital; D005260:Female; D006132:Growth Plate / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011859:Radiography; D011885:Radius Fractures / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D013180:Sprains and Strains / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D014954:Wrist Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging