title: Segmental metadiaphyseal humeral bone loss in pediatric trauma patients: a case series.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The management of posttraumatic bone loss is complicated and often requires complex reconstructive procedures. No options exist that are specific to the treatment of the growing skeleton that has intercalary bone loss. We have observed reconstitution of the humerus in 2 cases that have precluded extensive management.
  
  
  METHODS
  Two pediatric patients sustained traumatic injuries to the upper extremities, including humeral bone loss, and are presented after spontaneous reconstitution of the segmental bone loss.
  
  
  RESULTS
  With treatment restricted to soft-tissue injury and bone stabilization with external fixation, both patients demonstrated radiographic healing of humeral segmental bone loss. Both patients were thought to have a partially intact periosteal sleeve. They have returned to sporting activities with mild loss of function.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  In certain pediatric injuries, spontaneous healing of segmental bone defects can occur. This response may obviate the need for complex, interventional procedures.
  
  
  METHODS
  Level IV-case series.
authors: *Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children †Children's Medical Center Dallas, Dallas, TX ‡Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC.
authors: Robert L
authors: RL
authors: Wimberly
authors: Philip L
authors: PL
authors: Wilson
authors: Marybeth
authors: M
authors: Ezaki
authors: Benjamin D
authors: BD
authors: Martin
authors: Anthony I
authors: AI
authors: Riccio
mesh_terms: D001642:Bicycling / Q000293:injuries; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004551:Elbow Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology; D016267:External Fixators; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal; D017102:Fracture Healing; D005597:Fractures, Open / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D006810:Humeral Fractures / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D008297:Male; D010024:Osteoporosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000209:etiology*; D011859:Radiography; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D020127:Recovery of Function; D017695:Soft Tissue Injuries