[Fractures of the talus in children. Apropos of 23 cases].

The authors have reviewed 23 fractures of the talus in children. They propose a classification based on the radiological maturity of the bone and the specific type of fracture. Group I: Children younger than 6 years (6 cases). The fracture line separates the bone into two parts. The diagnosis was difficult, with displacement being underestimated in some cases. Associated lesions in the same limb were present in 5 cases. Five fractures of the neck of the talus were treated conservatively with excellent or fair results. One comminuted fracture was treated surgically with a poor result. In all cases treatment should aim to maintain a good tibio-tarsal joint. Group II: Children older than 6 years (17 cases). Eight cases were osteochondral fractures, two were partial fractures and seven were complete fractures. Two of these developed subsequent avascular necrosis. The relationship between osteochondral fractures and osteochondritis is discussed.