Some patients need surgery for more serious greenstick fractures. Surgery may be done to realign the bone. The doctor may insert a slender rod or a metal plate with screws into the bone surrounding the fracture to maintain alignment while the bone is healing.

Can a Greenstick fracture heal on its own?

“A greenstick fracture is easily managed and heals promptly and reliably,” Dr. Kuivila says. “As with most fractures in growing bones, the fracture completely remodels itself so that within a year you don't even see evidence of it in an X-ray.”

What type of fractures require surgery?

Closed fracture – The skin remains unbroken. Displaced fracture – The bone fragments on each side of the break aren't aligned, which may require surgery for complete healing. Comminuted fracture – The bone is broken into pieces, which may require surgery for complete healing.