What happened here? 3 year old child tripped jumping from a small hill and now refuses to bear weight on his left leg. X-ray shows non-displaced fracture in the proximal metaphysis of tibia, which does not extend all the way to the lateral cortex. Note: proximal tibia (lower leg bone) metaphyseal fractures typically occurs in children 3-6 years old #pediatricorthopedics Kid's bones have amazing healing abilities, but certain childhood fractures can lead to unexpected complications months later. Cozen's phenomenon refers to a progressive valgus (outward) deformity that develops after proximal tibial fractures in children (typically 3-6yo). First described by Dr. Lewis Cozen (1953), this condition can occur in up to 90% of cases, even with perfect initial treatment. The deformity typically develops 5-15 months post-injury, with maximum angulation observed around 12-18 mos. Why can this happen? Leading theories about Cozen's Phenomenon leg deformity include: • Asymmetric stimulation of the growth plate from fracture-induced hyperemia • Soft tissue interposition at the fracture site • Loss of medial periosteal tethering #PediatricOrthopedics • Fibular tethering of lateral tibial growth . It's really not (usually) a money racket! Treatment begins with proper casting in extension (with optimal varus molding). Parents should be counseled that #valgus deformity may still occur despite optimal care. Most cases resolve spontaneously within 3 years, typically leaving only a clinically insignificant 6° of valgus. Observation (and yes, often more x-rays) for 12-24 months is standard approach. For significant deformities (greater than 15-20°) near skeletal maturity, surgical options include guided growth techniques or corrective osteotomies. Modern approaches like tension band plating can offer minimally invasive solutions with excellent outcomes. Interestingly, the affected limb often ends up slightly longer (average 9mm) than the uninjured side, a detail worth mentioning to parents. While the complication can look alarming as it progresses, proper education + regular follow-up usually lead to excellent outcomes without surgery. . SHARE your kiddo's fracture experience & insights #CozensPhenomenon Radiograph provided by Miriam Leiderer, Radiopaedia, rID: 81754 📲 SUBSCRIBE NOW for new #surgery videos ▶️ https://loom.ly/YWVhehQ About Dr. Cory Calendine, MD #orthopedicsurgeon #jointreplacement In the operating room, I get to perform more than 600 hip & knee replacement surgeries each year. From LIVE surgical demos to viral video highlights, together let's explore - react - discuss all things related to bone and joint health THANK YOU for your comments, questions and suggestions. If there’s a medical topic or question you want me to discuss, please comment below. We are building a library of orthopedic medical video content focused on your requests and responses. 📽️ Watch latest hip & knee surgery videos ▶️ / @bonedoctor_youtube 𝐋𝐄𝐓'𝐒 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐂𝐓: TikTok ▶️ / corycalendinemd LinkTree ▶️ https://linktr.ee/corycalendinemd 𝐁𝐔𝐒𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐒 𝐄𝐌𝐀𝐈𝐋: [email protected] 🌐 https://www.corycalendinemd.com/ 💻 Schedule Appt Online ▶️ https://phreesia.me/CCalendine 📍 3000 Edward Curd Ln, Franklin, TN 37067 📞 (615) 791-2630 𝐃𝐈𝐒𝐂𝐋𝐀𝐈𝐌𝐄𝐑𝐒: Opinions expressed are solely my own and do not express the views or opinions of my employer. Information in this video is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis and/or treatment. All content [images, digital graphics, text, and other information] contained in this video is for general information purposes only and does not replace or substitute for a consultation with a qualified physician or health professional.