[Child orthopedics]

Children's fractures are a challenge to the treatment system, in that 17,000 children are treated in Denmark each year. The true burden on patients and society is unknown. It is estimated that 1000 new-born infants are treated for hip instability in Denmark per year, and 30 are diagnosed late. Ultrasound scanning is recommended for secondary screening and selective screening of children at risk. Identification of acetabular dysplasia followed by surgical correction could be an important prophylactic measure, with a potential reduction in expenses to society. To some extent, congenital clubfoot is hereditary. Environmental factors are important, maternal smoking being one. Early operative treatment yields good results. There is a need for prospective registration. Perthes' disease is an idiopathic necrosis of the capital femoral epiphysis. Passive smoking is a significant factor. A young age (7 years) and limited necrosis carry a good prognosis, and active treatment can improve the prognosis for the other patients.