Relationship between pediatric extremity fractures and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Abstract

Context: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is one of the most common mental disorders of childhood, characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behaviors. Fractures are a common cause of hospitalization, especially in children. Recognizing fracture risk factors can aid in injury prevention and provide information for determining the appropriate interventions. Objectives: This study examined whether a diagnosis of fracture is associated with the diagnosis and symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, as well as with symptoms of oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder and sluggish cognitive tempo. Materials and methods: The study groups consisted of children with and without extremity fractures who applied to the orthopedics and traumatology outpatient clinic. A semi-structured interview was conducted by a child psychiatrist and the scales were applied. The results obtained were compared and analyzed between patient and control groups. In addition, in patient group, fracture-related characteristics were detailed and their relationship with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder was invastigated. Results: A total of 200 children and adolescents, 65 males and 35 females diagnosed with fractures, and 56 males and 46 females in the control group, were included. The mean ages of the patient with fractures and control groups were 11.74 ± 3.40 and 11.46 ± 3.66, respectively. Results showed that the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity were associated with the risk of fracture. However, there was no relationship between with symptoms of other diseases and fracture. Conclusions: This study is important in terms of revealing the possible relationship between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and fracture. Questioning the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder by surgeons and identifying children at-risk will contribute to the early diagnosis and treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.