An initial rapid recovery in elbow motion can be expected after a lateral humeral condylar fracture in a child, with progressive improvements for up to one year after the injury. This recovery is slower if the patient is older, has a longer period of immobilization, and has a more severe injury.

This study suggests that some of the less severe pediatric type II SCHFs can be successfully treated without surgery if close follow-up is achieved. Fractures with initial rotational deformity, coronal malalignment, and significant extension of the distal fragment are likely to fail a nonoperative approach. An algorithm using the initial radiographic characteristics can aid in distinguishing groups.

Children with low-energy tibial shaft fractures can be successfully managed by immobilizing the knee in 10° of flexion and encouraging early weight-bearing, without affecting the time to union or increasing the risk of angulation and shortening at the fracture site.