Surgical treatment of distal radius nonunion accompanied with severe wrist deformity in children

Abstract

Objective To explore the treatment methods of distal radius nonunion combined with wrist deformity in children. Methods Nine cases of distal radius nonunion accompanied with wrist deformity were treated, among which 7 had open fractures and infections while the other 2 were dosed fractures. All eases were surgically treated by ulna shortening and radius lengthening with bone graft. Results Postoperatively the patients were followed up for 6 to 30 months, with an average of 22 months. All the fractures were healed. Eight had good appearance and function. Postoperative infection was seen in one patient that was cured with antibiotics treatment. Recurrence of wrist deformity occurred in one patient, who underwent a second surgery of ulnar shortening and arrest of distal epipbysis. Conclusion Ulna shortening and radius lengthening with hone graft is an effective procedures to treat children with distal radius nonunion and wrist deformity. The key to suecess is to ensure synchronized growth of the ulnar and radius, enhance fracture healing and correct deformity. Key words: Child; Radius; Abnormalities; Nonunion