SERVICES

Paediatric Orthopaedics

Paediatric Trauma

OVERVIEW

Paediatric trauma refers to injuries that affect the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and other components of the musculoskeletal system in children. This can result from accidents, falls, sports injuries, or other traumatic incidents. Children's growing bodies present unique challenges in treating these injuries, requiring specialized knowledge and skill.

Types of paediatric traumas:

  1. Fractures: Children are susceptible to fractures due to their active lifestyle. Fractures can range from simple to complex, and Dr du Plessis is adept at addressing these injuries with precision and care.
  2. Soft tissue injuries: Paediatric trauma often involves injuries to soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Prompt and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
  3. Growth plate injuries: As children's bones are still growing, they have growth plates that are vulnerable to injuries. Dr du Plessis has extensive experience in managing growth plate injuries to ensure proper growth and development.

Causes of paediatric trauma:

  1. Accidents and falls: Common in children, accidents and falls can lead to fractures, sprains, and other trauma. Dr du Plessis focuses on comprehensive evaluation and treatment to facilitate optimal recovery.
  2. Sports injuries: Active participation in sports can result in various musculoskeletal injuries. Dr du Plessis collaborates with young athletes to provide tailored treatment plans, promoting a swift return to their activities.
  3. Motor vehicle accidents: Trauma from motor vehicle accidents can be severe. Dr du Plessis is well-versed in managing complex injuries, employing both surgical and conservative approaches as needed.
SYMPTOMS
Recognizing the symptoms of paediatric trauma is essential for early intervention. Common signs include pain, swelling, deformity, difficulty using the affected limb, and, in some cases, visible injuries. Dr du Plessis emphasizes the importance of seeking prompt medical attention to ensure an accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.
TREATMENT
Dr du Plessis employs a multidisciplinary approach to treat paediatric trauma, tailoring his strategies to each patient's unique needs. Treatment options include:
  • Conservative treatment: Non-surgical approaches such as casting, bracing, and physical therapy are utilized when appropriate. Dr du Plessis focuses on minimally invasive methods to promote natural healing and prevent long-term complications.
  • Surgical intervention: In cases where surgery is necessary, Dr du Plessis utilizes advanced techniques to address fractures, correct deformities, and ensure optimal healing. His surgical expertise is coupled with a commitment to minimizing the impact on a child's growing body.

FAQ

How common are fractures in children?
Fractures are relatively common in children due to their active lifestyles. They can result from falls, accidents, or sports injuries. Dr Jason du Plessis specializes in treating various types of fractures in children.
What is the recovery time for paediatric trauma?
The recovery time varies depending on the type and severity of the injury. Dr du Plessis develops individualized treatment plans to promote optimal healing and a swift return to normal activities.
Does Dr du Plessis work with young athletes with sports-related injuries?
Yes, Dr du Plessis collaborates with young athletes to address sports-related paediatric traumas. His approach involves tailored treatment plans to facilitate a quick and safe return to sports activities.

    Request an Appointment

    PUBLICATIONS

    Assessment of the Reliability and Reproducibility of the Langenskiöld
    Classification in Blount’s Disease

    DU PLESSIS J, Firth GB, Robertson A. Assessment of the reliability and reproducibility of the Langenskiöld classification in Blount's disease. Journal of Pediatric orthopedics. Part B. 2019 Nov 12.

     

    The Impact of the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on orthopaedic trauma admissions in a central academic hospital in Johannesburg

    Foster M, Du Plessis J, Jansen van Vuuren M, Jingo M, Pietrzak JR. The impact of the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on orthopaedic trauma admissions in a central academic hospital in Johannesburg. SA Orthopaedic Journal. 2022;21(2):70-5.

    Short term results following two stage revision for periprosthetic joint infection

    DU PLESSIS, J et al. Short-term results following two-stage revision for periprosthetic joint infection. South African Orthopaedic Journal, [S.l.], v. 19, n. 2, p. 64-69, may 2020

     

    Comparison of visual estimations of distal radius fracture radiographic parameters between different levels of orthopaedic doctors.

    Naidoo V, Milner B, du Plessis J. SA Orthop J. 2025;24(1):26-31. http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2309-8309/2025/v24n1a4