A Three-Step Method for the Treatment of Radioulnar Synostosis with Posterior Radial Head Dislocation

Abstract

Congenital radioulnar synostosis with posterior dislocation of the radial head remains challenging to treat. We describe a three-step treatment method that combines radial shaft osteotomy with a custom-made device, ulnar shaft osteotomy, and local adipofascial flap elevation procedures. For posterior radial head dislocation treatment, osteotomy near the proximal radius cannot recover physiological rotation of the radial head. Thus, we chose a precise radial shaft osteotomy with a custom-made device according to preoperative planning based on three-dimensional evaluation of the bone deformation. Performing radial shaft osteotomy alone, however, may not be enough to achieve sufficient supination range of motion. We, therefore, also performed ulnar shaft osteotomy. Finally, we elevated the local adipofascial flap to prevent re-adhesion. In three patients, the range of motion of the elbow improved postoperatively. In conclusion, our three-step method does not require a microsurgical technique and is easy to perform.