Retrospective analysis of long-term outcomes in ulna-shortening osteotomy

Abstract

Background There is limited information regarding the long-term outcomes of ulna-shortening osteotomy for ulna impaction syndrome. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) questionnaire is a commonly used patient-rated outcome measure to assess function of the upper limb. The purpose of this retrospective case analysis was to compare patient-reported functional outcome with satisfaction in the assessment of long-term outcome after ulna shorting osteotomy. Methods A study of 32 patients presenting with ulna impaction syndrome with an average assessment of 54 months (range 8–102 months, SD 25.87) following ulna-shortening osteotomy. Outcome was evaluated using the QuickDASH questionnaire and an ordinal patient satisfaction score. Anonymous QuickDASH scores and patient satisfaction scores were obtained for 22 patients, one of whom underwent bilateral ulna-shortening osteotomy and completed individual responses for each procedure, providing us with 23 responses (68% response rate). Results Thirty two patients had an ulna-shortening osteotomy between 2003 and 2012. Fifteen were male (47%) and 17 were female (53%) with an average age at surgery of 43 years (range 15–73, SD 11.27). Two patients underwent bilateral operations. The average QuickDASH score was 22.88 ( n = 23, range 0–72.5, SD 24.22) at follow-up. The average work QuickDASH score was 15.39 (range 0–50, SD 20.74). The average sport QuickDASH score was 34.38 (range 0–81.25, SD 28.89). Patient satisfaction scores showed 87% of patients reported an improvement in symptoms and 61% of patients would definitely recommend the procedure to patients with similar symptoms. Conclusion Long-term outcomes after ulna-shortening osteotomy show high levels of patient satisfaction and low QuickDASH scores.