Successful Conservative Management of Bayonet Fracture of the Lower End of Radius and Ulna in a 6-Year-Old Boy: A Case Report

Abstract

Bayonet fractures of the lower end of both the radius and ulna in paediatric patients are exceedingly rare, posing unique challenges in their management and follow-up. In many of the instances these fractures are treated by open reduction and internal fixation under anaesthesia. However recent studies have claimed that these fractures in children can be immobilized without reduction in an overriding position with good outcome. Paediatric patients presenting with bayonet fractures needs prompt diagnosis, appropriate immobilization, and meticulous long-term monitoring. However neurovascular abnormalities must be ruled out in patients in whom conservative management is being contemplated. Compromised neurovascular status is an indication of urgent exploration, open reduction and internal fixation. We present here a case of 6 years old boy with bayonet fracture of lower end of radius and ulna who was conservatively managed by above elbow cast for 1 month. An X-ray taken 18 months after the removal of cast showed complete remodelling of the bones. This case report highlights the exceptional potential for bone remodelling and functional recovery in young patients when managed with conservative management strategy.