An anatomical classification of congenital proximal radioulnar synostosis based on retrospective MRI measurement combined with radiography

Abstract

Existed classifications of congenital proximal radioulnar synostosis (PRUS) mainly focus on osseous changes and do not cover all types of congenital PRUS, ignoring the role and developing status of the supinator. This study aims to explore the correlation between supinator development and radiographic deformity of congenital PRUS. Pediatric patients diagnosed with congenital PRUS in two pediatric Orthopedic centers were evaluated retrospectively. MRI and radiographic images of their bilateral forearms (including normal ones) were collected. The area of supinator, extensor carpi radialis longus (ECRL), extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB), brachioradialis (BRAR) muscle and extensor indicis (EI) muscle were measured on each forearm. The ratios of these muscles were calculated and regarded as an indicator of the developing status of supinator muscle. Twenty-seven congenital PRUS forearms of 16 patients (average 3.45 years) were included. A new MRI & X-ray classification system was proposed to cover all types of radiographic deformity and provide a comprehensive description of supinator development. This study revealed the relation between MRI measured supinator volume and radiographic deformity of congenital PRUS. Supinator muscles were observed in all congenital PRUS cases. A novel classification was proposed, providing a more comprehensive understanding of congenital PRUS.