Torus/buckle and greenstick fracture

A torus/buckle fracture is, by definition, a failure of a single cortex in compression and is, therefore, minimally displaced and stable.

A greenstick fracture is caused by a bending force, causing compression on one cortex and tension/distraction on the opposite cortex. These fractures may be angulated and/or unstable.

These fractures are classified as 11-M/2.1.

A buckle/torus fracture of the proximal humeral metaphysis typically occurs in young children and heals rapidly and without deformity.

This fracture is usually caused by low-energy trauma, eg, a simple fall from standing height.

Read about the developmental anatomy in:

• Proximal humeral anatomy

AP and lateral x-rays should be obtained.

Transthoracic views should be avoided.