Salter-Harris Classification (physeal fracture)
Salter-Harris classification of a physeal (growth-plate) fracture (I–V) by the SALTR mnemonic; growth-disturbance risk rises I to V.
Open the calculator → Runs in your browser. Data leaves only if you deliberately send a problem report from the interactive tool.
Example
- Physeal-fracture pattern
- Physis + epiphysis — Lower (III)
Result: Salter-Harris Type III — through the physis and into the epiphysis; intra-articular, usually needs anatomic reduction.
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What the result means
- SALTR
- I Slipped (physis only), II Above (physis + metaphysis, the most common ~75%), III Lower (physis + epiphysis), IV Through (all three), V cRush (physeal compression).
- Prognosis
- growth-disturbance risk rises ascending I → V; III and IV are intra-articular and usually need anatomic reduction; V is often radiographically occult.
What you enter
- Physeal-fracture pattern
How this is calculated
Salter RB, Harris WR. Injuries involving the epiphyseal plate. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 1963;45(3):587-622. Read the source ↗
A reference and educational tool. Not medical, legal, or financial advice, and not a substitute for clinician judgment.