Pediatric orthopedics is a medical specialty dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and deformities of the musculoskeletal system in children. Whether it involves bones, joints, muscles, tendons or ligaments, pediatric orthopedists treat a wide variety of conditions, from the most common (such as flat feet) to the most complex deformities present at birth.
- Children suffering from diseases and deformities of the musculoskeletal system.
- It all depends on the complexity of the treatment.
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Special features of a child's body
Growth in children is a dynamic and complex process. Bones are constantly evolving and are composed of a bone matrix that is richer in water and collagen fibers than in adults. This composition gives them greater flexibility, but also makes them more sensitive to impact. What's more, the presence of a growth plate, a true zone of growth at the ends of long bones, allows bones to lengthen and change shape over time.
Bone remodeling, a process of continuous bone renewal, is particularly active in children and promotes rapid bone healing in the event of a fracture.
Conditions treated in pediatric orthopedics
The pediatric orthopedist is trained to recognize the specific signs of pediatric orthopedic pathologies. They suggest treatments that are appropriate for the age and development of the child's body. They also provide regular follow-up care to assess disease progression and adjust treatment as needed.
- Pediatric orthopedists treat a wide range of pathologies from birth to adolescence, including:
- Congenital deformities: clubfoot, hip dislocation, etc.
- Growth disorders: scoliosis, limb length inequality, etc.
- Gait disorders: lameness, pain, etc.
- Bone disorders: juvenile arthritis, osteomyelitis, etc.
- Trauma: fractures, dislocations, sprains, etc.
Symptoms of orthopedic problems in children
The symptoms of an orthopedic problem in a child are varied and may include:
- Localized pain, often exacerbated by physical activity.
- Lameness.
- Swelling around a joint.
- Deformities such as unequal limb lengths or twisted feet.
- Limitation of joint movement.
- Fever with bone infection.
Diagnosing orthopedic disorders in children
The diagnosis of an orthopedic disorder in a child is based on several elements:
- Detailed clinical examination: The pediatric orthopedic surgeon will examine the child and evaluate gait, posture, and joint mobility.
- Medical imaging: X-rays, scans, and MRIs are used to visualize bones, joints, and soft tissues and identify abnormalities.
- Additional tests: Other tests, such as blood or genetic tests, may be needed depending on the situation.
Pediatric orthopedic treatments
Pediatric orthopedic treatments are designed to:
- Correct deformities: through surgery or the use of orthopedic devices.
- Relieve pain: through medication or physical therapy.
- Promote growth: in the case of unequal limb lengths.
- Preserve function: by allowing the child to regain optimal mobility.
The therapeutic approach is always personalized and adapted to the child's age, type of pathology and developmental stage.
Causes of orthopedic disorders in children
Pediatric orthopedics deals with a wide range of problems affecting the musculoskeletal system in children. The causes of these disorders are many and varied, but can be grouped into several categories:
| Categories | Causes |
| Developmental causes |
|
Traumatic causes | Children, especially active ones, are often prone to trauma, which can result in :
|
Medical causes | Genetic diseases: Certain hereditary diseases can affect the development of bones, muscles or joints.
|
Risk factors
Certain factors can increase a child's risk of developing orthopedic conditions:
- Prematurity: Babies born prematurely are more likely to develop bone or muscle problems.
- Family history: Children who have parents or siblings with orthopedic conditions are at greater risk.
- Obesity: Being overweight can put excessive pressure on joints, especially in growing children.
- Excessive physical activity: Intense exercise without adequate preparation can increase the risk of injury.
Orthopedic conditions in children have many complex causes. An accurate diagnosis by a pediatrician or orthopedic surgeon is essential to ensure the proper treatment for each individual case.
Pediatric orthopedic surgery: a personalized approach
Each pediatric orthopedic surgical procedure is tailored to the child and his or her specific pathology. There are several stages to the process:
- Preparation and anesthesia: The child is prepared for the procedure and given anesthesia appropriate for his or her age.
- Incision and correction: An incision is made at the precise point where the correction is to be made. The surgeon then uses specific techniques to treat the deformity or lesion.
- Closure and postoperative care: Sutures or staples are used to close the incision. Post-operative care is then provided to promote optimal recovery.
The length of hospital stay varies depending on the complexity of the surgery and the child's response to treatment. It can range from a few hours to several days.
Recovery and convalescence
Recovery from pediatric orthopedic surgery takes time and patience.
The child will need rehabilitation to regain normal mobility and muscle strength.
The length of recovery depends on the child's age, the type of surgery, and the child's cooperation.
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