OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to describe the varied appearances of metaphyseal fragmentation associated with physiologic bowing and to estimate their frequency in children undergoing radiographic evaluation. CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest that metaphyseal fragmentation is occasionally encountered in children with physiologic bowing. Results of a systematic imaging assessment should minimize confusion of this innocent radiologic alteration with the classic metaphyseal lesion of child abuse.
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to describe the varied appearances of metaphyseal fragmentation associated with physiologic bowing and to estimate their frequency in children undergoing radiographic evaluation. CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest that metaphyseal fragmentation is occasionally encountered in children with physiologic bowing. Results of a systematic imaging assessment should minimize confusion of this innocent radiologic alteration with the classic metaphyseal lesion of child abuse.