[Nutcracker fracture of the cuboid in children].

Cuboid fractures in children are rare. Missed fractures of the cuboid may lead to severe alterations in foot mechanics and function. In the case described a 9-year-old girl suffered a compression fracture of the cuboid after falling from a tree. The rarity of this injury in children results in a lack of standardized procedures. If severe impaction is present bone grafting is recommended. Transarticular K-wires are usually used for transfixation of the calcaneocuboid joint after open reduction. Disadvantages are damage to the cartilage caused by transarticular transfixation and potential loss of anatomical reduction of the cuboid. Considering operative treatment in adults, we used a fixed-angle plate for internal fixation after open reduction to reduce these risks. Bone grafting was not necessary. Due to continuing growth the plate was removed 6 months after the operation. Physical and radiological examinations revealed an excellent result.