Definition
The transitional fracture represents the typical joint injury of adolescents in the period of growth plate closure. The partially ossified growth plate leads to a change in the stereotype fracture pattern in children. The result is a specific fracture pattern which can be classified into two- and triplane fractures, according to the number of fragments.
Diagnosis
Conventional radiographs play a major role in diagnosis, whereby cross-sectional imaging helps to distinguish between the specific fracture types.
Treatment
The goal of therapy is anatomical joint reconstruction to avoid long-term consequences of early osteoarthritis.