Fracture of the proximal metaphysis of the tibia in children.

Forty children seen consecutively with fractures of the proximal tibial metaphysis were reviewed to assess the frequency of the types of fracture and likelihood of developing progressive valgus deformity. The incidence of this fracture was 5.6 per 100,000 children per year. There were 17 fissure and buckle fractures, 15 greenstick fractures and 8 complete fractures. Valgus deformity was not seen after fissure or buckle fractures. Only 15 per cent of the greenstick and complete fractures progressed to valgus deformity. Predisposing factors were a young age and persistent valgus at the fracture site at union.