Fractures and dislocations mnemonic

Salter-Harris physeal fracture types

The mnemonic

SALTR

What each word stands for

  • SType I: Straight across the physis
  • AType II: Above the physis (metaphyseal fragment)
  • LType III: Lower, through the epiphysis
  • TType IV: Through metaphysis, physis and epiphysis
  • RType V: Rammed (crush) injury of the physis

Why it matters clinically

Types III to V can disturb growth, so they need careful reduction and follow-up.

Where it stops being reliable

Gives the five types only; it does not cover prognosis in detail or the extra types in other classifications.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Fractures and dislocations mnemonic?

SALTR. It helps you recall: Salter-Harris physeal fracture types.

What does "S" stand for?

Type I: Straight across the physis

What does "A" stand for?

Type II: Above the physis (metaphyseal fragment)

What does "L" stand for?

Type III: Lower, through the epiphysis

What are all the parts of the SALTR mnemonic?

S: Type I: Straight across the physis; A: Type II: Above the physis (metaphyseal fragment); L: Type III: Lower, through the epiphysis; T: Type IV: Through metaphysis, physis and epiphysis; R: Type V: Rammed (crush) injury of the physis.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Fractures and dislocations in Orthopaedics.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Gives the five types only; it does not cover prognosis in detail or the extra types in other classifications.

How is this useful clinically?

Types III to V can disturb growth, so they need careful reduction and follow-up.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Orthopaedics question about Fractures and dislocations.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.