PEDIATRIC FRACTURE MANAGEMENT FROM DIFFERENT COUNTRY PERSPECTIVES

This chapter explores the diverse approaches to pediatric fracture management across different coun-tries, emphasizing the influence of cultural, economic, and systemic factors. Pediatric fractures, com-mon in children, vary in incidence and treatment due to factors such as healthcare infrastructure, so-cioeconomic status, and cultural practices. In developed countries, sports-related injuries dominate, with advanced healthcare systems enabling rapid and effective treatments, often employing minimal-ly invasive techniques. Conversely, in developing and low-income countries, road traffic accidents, falls, and child labor are the main causes of fractures. These regions face challenges such as limited healthcare access, reliance on traditional healers, and lack of modern medical infrastructure, leading to delayed treatments and complications like malunion and infections. Significant regional disparities exist in fracture types and treatments. For instance, supracondylar humerus fractures are prevalent in low-income regions but often managed conservatively due to limited resources. Advanced surgical in-terventions are confined to urban centers in these regions, leaving rural areas dependent on suboptimal methods. Cultural beliefs influence treatment preferences, with traditional healing methods often de-laying modern medical care, especially in rural Asia and Africa. Seasonal and geographical factors also play a role; for example, fracture incidence peaks during school vacations in developing countries and varies with seasonal sports in developed nations. Future trends highlight the potential of telemedicine, artificial intelligence, and robotic surgery in improving pediatric fracture care globally. Strengthening healthcare infrastructure, enhancing medical education, and fostering international collaborations are critical for addressing disparities in treatment standards. This chapter underscores the importance of tailored approaches to pediatric fracture management, considering regional and socioeconomic con-texts, to improve outcomes and reduce complications globally. The chapter calls for global efforts to bridge the gap in pediatric fracture care.