Salter-Harris 1 Fracture
This fracture consists of compression or separation of the growth plate. It appears to be a horizontal fracture through the growth plate. An MRI could be the only solution for visualizing the fracture. Most patients heal after 4-6 weeks of immobilization of the area in a cast or sling.
Salter-Harris 2 Fracture
The most common growth plate fracture, level 2 is a fracture across the growth plate, but exiting the bone through the metaphysis, which is the layer of bone located above the growth plate.
Salter-Harris 3 Fracture
This type of fracture does not break across the entire growth plate. Rather, it exits through the epiphysis, which is located at the end of the bone. This type of fracture is more uncommon and is more likely than not to require surgery due to the instability of the joint caused by this fracture.
Salter-Harris 4 Fracture
This uncommon fracture is a vertical break through the area above the growth plate, through the cartilage area and exits through the end of the bone. A level 4 fracture requires greater intervention, including resetting the bone and immobilization using a cast or other treatment.
Salter-Harris 5 Fracture
A level 5 fracture is often caused by an event that crushes the bone, including the growth plate. With this type of fracture growth arrest is more likely to occur, which can lead to slowed or prevented growth.