Ulnar Lengthening Research Articles

Clinical and Functional Outcomes of Ulnar Lengthening in the Treatment of Masada Type I Forearm Deformities in Hereditary Multiple Osteochondromas

Forearm deformity is common in hereditary multiple osteochondromas (HMO). The results of ulnar lengthening and osteochondroma excision are generally favorable, both clinically and radiographically. This study aimed to assess the clinical, radiographic, and functional results of forearm reconstruction in patients with Masada type I deformity (osteochondroma in the distal ulna with radial bowing, without radial head dislocation). A retrospective review was performed on patients with HMO who underwent surgical reconstruction for a Masada type I forearm deformity over a 10-year period. Eleven forearms in 10 patients underwent gradual ulnar lengthening with an external fixator. Age at the time of surgery was 5 to 12 years. Radiographic evaluation included ulnar shortening, radial articular angle, and carpal slip. Clinical evaluation included range of motion of the elbow and wrist. Functional outcomes were evaluated with the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire and the Short Form-36 survey. At an average follow-up of 37.5 months, significant improvement was observed in ulnar shortening, the radial articular angle, and carpal slip. Preoperative average Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score of 24.2 improved to 17.3. Significant improvement was observed in 3 measures of the Short Form-36 survey: general health, social functioning, and health change. In agreement with the literature, surgical reconstruction yielded favorable clinical and radiographic results in Masada type I forearm deformities. The main functional improvement was observed in scales of mental health. The baseline physical impairment was minimal in the absence of radial head dislocation, but although it improved with treatment, it was not necessarily clinically relevant. This study can assist surgeons and families in setting realistic goals and expectations for surgery. There may also be additional long-term benefits to forearm lengthening in HMO, including prevention of radial head dislocation, improved range of motion, and better cosmesis, which future research may help to clarify. Therapeutic V.

Forearm Deformity and Radial Head Dislocation in Pediatric Patients with Hereditary Multiple Exostoses: A Prospective Study Using Proportional Ulnar Length as a Scale to Lengthen the Shortened Ulna.

Ulnar lengthening is a consensus treatment for hereditary multiple exostoses with radial head dislocation in pediatric patients; however, the optimal amount of ulnar lengthening remains unclear. It is necessary to look for a parameter to decide the amount of ulnar lengthening that will avoid recurrence and complications. The purpose of the present study was to confirm that proportional ulnar length (ulnar length/radial length) can be used as a scale for ulnar lengthening in pediatric patients. The normal lengths of the ulna and radius in the pediatric population were measured in different age groups. The proportional ulnar length was calculated as ulnar length/radial length in each group. Thirty forearms in 26 patients with radial head dislocation were treated with ulnar lengthening and deformity correction. The goal of ulnar lengthening was to recover the normal proportional ulnar length. The function of the forearm was evaluated at the time of the latest follow-up. The preoperative and postoperative values for radial bowing, radioarticular angle, ulnar variance, and carpal slip were also compared. The value of proportional ulnar length in the normal population consistently averaged approximately 1.1. In all cases, proportional ulnar length recovered to the normal value of 1.1. Reduction of the dislocated radial head was achieved in 28 forearms (93%); in 16 of these forearms, good-quality reduction was achieved and no recurrence of radial head dislocation was observed during follow-up. The function of the forearm improved markedly (p < 0.001). Ulnar variance improved from 2.51 to -0.79 cm (p < 0.001). Radial deformities improved according to measurements of radial bowing and the radioarticular angle (p < 0.001). All parents were satisfied with the postoperative appearance and function of the forearm. Proportional ulnar length could be used as a scale to decide the amount of ulnar lengthening for radial head dislocation in pediatric patients with hereditary multiple exostoses. Ulnar lengthening according to proportional ulnar length and deformity correction can prevent recurrence of ulnar variance and avoid impingement of the wrist. Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Multiple Hereditary Exostosis of Distal Ulna with Dislocation of Radial Head: A Case Report

Background: Multiple hereditary exostosis of the forearm is typically formed in the distal ulna causing disturbances in the growth of the ulna and functional disability. Multiple hereditary exo­stosis inhibits the growth of the ulna leading to an acquisition of a varus deformity in the ra­dius which sometimes leads to dislocation of the radial head, the development of limitations in the pronation-supination of the forearm, and cos­me­tic problems. This study aimed to report the mul­ti­ple hereditary exostosis of distal ulna with dis­location of radial head. Case Presentation: We present a case of a 14 year-old girl with main complaint of a bony prominence on her right elbow which limits the elbow flexion range of motion. 3D CT-Scan re­vealed a dislocation of radial head, shortening and posterior bowing of ulna. We performed excision of the prominent radial head, recons­truction, and temporary arthrodesis of the elbow. Results: The forearm deformity in patients with multiple hereditary exostosis related to the cross-sectional area of the distal ulnar physis was only one-quarter of the distal radius, the distal ulna is more involved in the condition. There was more longitudinal growth at the distal ulnar physis than at the distal radial physis, the distal ulnar physis contributed more total Ulnar Length than the distal radial physis did to Radial length. Known surgical interventions including simple excision, ulnar lengthening, corrective radial os­teo­­tomy, hemi-epiphyseal stapling of the distal radius, the Sauve-Kapandji procedure. Conclusion: Simple excision could improve the range of movement of the forearm but would not halt the progression of disease, particularly in younger patients. It was not effective in con­troll­ing progression of the deformity. Mature patients did not recur, but in patients that had been excis­ed before puberty the results were varied and unpredictable. Keywords: multiple hereditary exostosis, radial head dislocation, excision Correspondence: Pamudji Utomo. Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology Prof. Dr. R.Soeharso Ortho­paedics Hospital, Surakarta. Email: utomodr­@yahoo.com. Indonesian Journal of Medicine (2020), 05(01): 63-69 https://doi.org/10.26911/theijmed.2020.05.01.10

Acute ulnar osteotomy versus gradual distraction by external fixator to correct missed monteggia type 1 fracture-dislocation; A comparative study

Background: Monteggia fracture-dislocations are complex injuries. These injuries, especially neglected ones, remain a challenge for orthopedic surgeons. The aim of this study is to compare the results of acute and gradual ulnar lengthening osteotomies in treating chronic Monteggia fractures in children. Patients and Methods: The study includes two groups of patients, treated at our institution in the period from April 2014 to September 2018. The first group (Group A) included nine patients who were treated by an overcorrective ulnar osteotomy with acute lengthening with bone grafting. The second group (B) includes 11 children who were treated by Ilizarov distraction osteogenesis for differential lengthening of forearm bones. There were 14 boys and 6 girls. The left elbow was involved in five patients and the right elbow 15 patients. All fractures were classified as Bado type I with anterior radial head dislocation. The average age at the time of surgery was 7 years and 4 months. Results: The mean interval from the injury to surgical interference was 8.6 months. There was a significant improvement of the elbow range of motion and Mayo elbow performance score. In group B, the mean external fixation time was 9.7 weeks (range from 9 to 15 weeks). The mean total treatment time was 12.3 weeks (ranged from 12 to 16 weeks). Superficial pin-tract infection occurred in all cases and was managed without further sequelae. Conclusions: Both approaches yielded equally good results. The open surgery approach entails a more invasive procedure, but more convenient to the patient and no arduous postoperative follow-up is needed. On the contrary, differential lengthening of forearm bones is a percutaneous procedure with the application of Ilizarov principles in a controlled biological manner; with no graft materials needed. Both techniques effectively reduced the radial head.

Less Is More: Ulnar Lengthening Alone without Radial Corrective Osteotomy in Forearm Deformity Secondary to Hereditary Multiple Exostoses.

Ulnar lengthening has gained popularity in treating forearm deformity due to hereditary multiple exostoses (HME). Whether a simultaneous radius angular correction is necessary for bowing deformity remains debatable. We aimed to evaluate effectiveness and safety of ulnar lengthening alone in HME children. HME patients with forearm deformity who underwent ulnar lengthening between 2011 and 2016 were included. Patients were divided into two groups: eight juniors (age ≤ 10 years) and six seniors (>10 years). The mean age of two groups was 8.1 ± 2.5 and 16.7 ± 4.4 years, respectively. The juniors underwent ulnar lengthening alone, and the seniors received an additional radial corrective osteotomy. Pre-operative and post-operative parameters of supination, pronation, ulnar variance (UV), radial articular angles (RAA), and carpal slip (CS) were assessed. The juniors rather the seniors had an improvement in supination (p < 0.05 and p = 0.109, respectively). The juniors and seniors improved in pronation (p < 0.05). UV, RAA, and CS were corrected in the seniors (p < 0.05). In the juniors, parameters improved in UV, RAA, and CS (p < 0.05). For HME children, ulnar lengthening alone can restore radiologic anatomy and functions, providing comparable surgical outcomes in cosmetic results and clinical parameters.

Identification of risk factors affecting bone formation in gradual ulnar lengthening in children with hereditary multiple exostoses: A retrospective study.

The forearm deformity classified by Masada is a characteristic trait of patients with hereditary multiple exostoses (HME). Ulnar gradual lengthening, which was considered to be a safe and reliable procedure, was popular in treating these difficult deformities, however, delayed consolidation of the callus is uncommon but not rare in literature review. The purpose of this study was to try to identify the risk factors influencing bone healing in gradual ulnar lengthening in HME.We retrospectively reviewed patients with HME-induced forearm deformity who underwent gradual ulnar lengthening at our hospital from 2010 to 2016. Patients’ demographic data, forearm deformity of Masada type, surgical procedure, ulnar diameter of osteotomy site, and external fixator type were recorded. We also reviewed radiographical data included gained length, axis deviation, callus form. Clinical outcome was assessed by the bone healing index (HI). Multiple linear regression was used to analyze the relationships between diffident parameters and the HI, the level of significance was set P <.05.Thirty-three patients were included in this study. The mean follow-up period was 1.5 (range 0.5–8) years. Circular external fixators were used in 5 patients and monolateral external fixators were used in 28 patients. The mean achieved length was 4.24 cm. The mean HI was 50.3 (range 26.6–99.3) days/cm. In patient with monolateral external fixator, patient's age was positively correlated with the bone HI (P = .001), while diameter and body mass index (BMI) were negatively correlated with the HI (P = .040, .018, respectively). Patient's sex, removal of distal ulnar exostoses, lengthening percentage, and axis deviation were non-significant in the regression model.When using monolateral external fixator for ulnar lengthening, patient's age, diameter of osteotomy site, and BMI are the most important risk factors related to bone formation. Pediatric orthopedic surgeons should consider these variables in order to avoid delayed union.

Forearm lengthening and prosthetic management in children with transverse congenital forearm deficiency

In cases of transverse congenital forearm deficiency, achieving a good prosthesis fit during childhood remains a challenge. Ulnar lengthening is a treatment option for improving the prosthesis fit. The objective of this study was to evaluate surgical ulnar lengthening and the subsequent prosthesis fit. We reviewed four cases of ulnar lengthening in children with transverse congenital forearm deficiency. The procedure was evaluated in terms of the duration of lengthening, increase in ulnar length and healing index. The elbow range of motion, functional outcome (Prosthetic Upper Extremity Functional Index, PUFI) and time spent using the prosthesis per day were evaluated. The mean age at the time of the lengthening procedure was 3.5 years, the mean duration of lengthening was 58.3 days, the mean length gain was 21 mm, and the mean healing index was 70.1 days/cm. Elbow range of motion was restricted in one patient (100°–140°) and full in the other three patients. Based on the PUFI, 88.4% of activities were performed without the prosthesis. Children only used their prosthesis to perform specific tasks. Given the high complication rate and the lack of prosthesis use during daily activities, the main indication for forearm lengthening is a very short forearm that prevents prosthesis fitting. This procedure should be performed later in life – in adolescence.

Gradual ulnar lengthening by an Ilizarov ring fixator for correction of Masada IIb forearm deformity without tumor excision in hereditary multiple exostosis: preliminary results.

Bony exostoses are benign osteocartilaginous growths that start close to growth plates. Approximately 30-60% of patients have forearm deformities. The commonly encountered forearm deformities in these patients are bowing of the radius, with or without ulnar drift of the carpus, radial head dislocation, shortening of the ulna, and radial head dislocation. The current study reported on the results of management of radial head dislocation for type IIb Masada and Oho classification of forearm deformities by Ilizarov ulnar lengthening and without tumor excision. A series of 12 patients with Masada type IIb deformity were treated by Ilizarov lengthening at AlHadra University Hospital, Alexandria, Egypt, during the period from January 2008 to June 2014. There were eight males and four females; the right forearm was affected in seven patients. The mean age of the patients was 8.7 years (range: 7.5-10 years). All cases showed ulnar shortening with distal ulnar exostosis and radial head dislocation (Masada type IIb). All patients were operated on under general anesthesia, with application of the Ilizarov frame to the forearm. The frame used was assembled of two complete rings; the proximal one was fixed to the proximal ulna and the distal ring was fixed to both radius and ulna. Ulnar osteotomy was performed between the two rings, followed by ulnar lengthening 10 days postoperatively to lengthen the ulna and pull down the radius. Over a follow-up period of 33.2 months (24-48 months), all patients showed spontaneous reduction of the radial head and correction of the forearm deformity. The range of motion improved: flexion increased from 117.5° (110-130°) to 145° (130-160°) and extension increased to 4.6° (0-10°), whereas it was 13.8° (10-20°) preoperatively and the supination increased from 46.3° (40-50°) preoperatively to 73.6° (65-80°) postoperatively. Pronation improved from a preoperative average of 37.9° (30-40°) to 70.8° (60-80°) at the end of follow-up. The average amount of ulnar length was 27.9 mm (25-35) and the duration of external fixation was 103.3 days on average, with a range of 90-130. Thus, the average external fixation index was 3.7 days/mm (range: 3.6-4.0). Gradual lengthening of the ulna and pulling down the radius with an Ilizarov frame is an excellent method for correction of forearm deformity in patients with multiple hereditary exostosis (Masada IIb). Early intervention is the key to achieving spontaneous reduction of the radial head in all patients without the need for corrective osteotomy or tumor excision. Level of evidence: level IV.

Use of hexapod frame to gradually correct congenital and acquired forearm deformity

Introduction: Forearm deformity affects patients with Multiple Hereditary Exostosis (MHE), Ollier's disease, and other various congenital deformities as well as those with physeal growth arrest secondary to trauma. Acute correction of such deformities is complicated by risk of neurovascular compromise and as such, techniques that allow for gradual deformity correction are of great interest in this clinical setting. We hypothesized that the use of hexapod frame would allow for reliable correction without neurovascular compromise. Methods: This retrospective, case series reviewed all patients who underwent osteoplasty of the radius and ulna between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2017, among two surgeons. Patient demographics, comorbidities, radiographic parameters, external fixation index (EFI), and complications were recorded from chart review. Six patients presented with a diagnosis of MHE, two patients with a diagnosis of Ollier's disease, one with short stature homeobox (SHOX) deletion, and one with physeal growth arrest. Results: Of the ten patients identified, the rate of lengthening proceeded between 0.5 and 1 mm/day with an average EFI of 3.7 months/cm for the radius and 7.4 months/cm for the ulna. Average radius and ulna lengthening were 1.5 cm and 2.7 cm, respectively. Average radial bow preoperatively was 1.7 cm with a location of the maximal radial bow at an average of 61% from the radial tuberosity. Radial bow was corrected to 0.6 cm on average with a location of the maximal radial bow at an average of 64%. Neither patients exhibited nerve deficit nor neurapraxia at the conclusion of treatment. One fracture occurred after frame removal, which was treated with open reduction and internal fixation. Conclusion: Hexapod frames can be used to safely correct forearm deformities without neurovascular compromise.

Ulnar lengthening osteotomy in the treatment of Kienbock disease: A prospective case series

Ulnar lengthening osteotomy in the treatment of Kienbock disease: A prospective case series

Evaluation of the results of ulnar lengthening for correction of forearm deformities in multiple exostoses (Diaphyseal aclasis)

Evaluation of the results of ulnar lengthening for correction of forearm deformities in multiple exostoses (Diaphyseal aclasis)

Outcomes in Early Versus Late Presentation of Focal Fibrocartilaginous Dysplasia Affecting the Upper Extremity: A Review of 4 Cases.

Focal fibrocartilaginous dysplasia (FFCD) is a rare disorder of the upper and lower extremities. In the distal ulna, a ligamentous tether emerging from the metaphysis crosses the physis and restricts growth, leading to deformity. Lesion excision before radiocapitellar subluxation has been shown to restore growth and allow remodeling. We review the outcomes of 4 patients with FFCD of the distal ulna after the occurrence of radiocapitellar incongruity. This retrospective review examined 4 patients diagnosed with FFCD of the distal ulna from 2007 to 2015. Diagnosis was based on radiographic parameters and pathology when available. The radiographic and functional outcomes are reported. Three males and 1 female patient presented at an average of 37.5 months (range, 22 to 48 mo) with ulnar FFCD and radiocapitellar joint incongruity. The first patient had progressive radiocapitellar dislocation, poor motion, pain, and deformity. The second patient presented for a third opinion after previous surgery secondary to deformity progression and radial head dislocation. These patients required salvage procedures with creation of a 1-bone forearm. Patient 3 had frank dislocation of the radiocapitellar joint, yet maintained functional motion. This family elected for continued observation. Patient 4 had a 50% subluxation of the radiocapitellar joint and underwent tether excision and ulnar lengthening with an external fixator. Both joint congruity and deformity improved with functional forearm and elbow motion. Delayed treatment of ulnar FFCD may require salvage procedures to maximize function and provide pain relief.

The treatment of chronic radial head dislocation in Monteggia fracture without annular ligament reconstruction.

The treatment of neglected radial head dislocation after missed Monteggia fracture dislocation in children is a controversial issue. The purpose of this study is to report our clinical experience in the treatment of the condition without annular ligament reconstruction. This is a retrospective review of 20 patients between 2008 and 2014. Procedures included open reduction of the radial head and ulnar lengthening angulation osteotomy. In cases of unstable radial head reduction, a trans-capitellar K wire was applied. The pre- and post-operative radiographs were available for evaluation as well as the Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI). The average pre-operative elbow extension-flexion arc was 99.5° and pronation-supination arc was 151°. At last follow-up, the flexion of elbow had significant improvement (from 110° to 124°), while the average pronation and supination arc decreased, most in pronation (from 75° to 65°). Post-operatively, MEPI scored higher, especially in elbow pain and stability. Patients underwent surgery within oneyear of injury had better functional outcome than those injured over one year. The patients required trans-capitellar K wire for unstable radial head reduction and were in the older age group. At final follow-up, the reduction of radial head was maintained in all cases except two with mild subluxations of the radial head in radiographs. Two cases required radial shaft shortening to facilitate the reduction because of proximal migration of the radius. For neglected radial head dislocation following Monteggia fracture dislocation, we presented our surgical strategy to reduce the radial head without annual ligament reconstruction. Our patients functionally benefited from the procedure with significant improvement in elbow pain and stability, as well as improved flexion of the elbow with stable radial head reduction. IV.

Excision of distal ulnar exostosis: A case series and literature review

BackgroundMultiple Hereditary Exostoses with distal ulnar exostosis often results in forearm deformity and functional restrictions. Literature reported variable outcomes and frequent complications with an aggressive approach of ulna lengthening. The role of distal ulnar exostosis excision remained uncertain with contradictory effect in restoring growth. Our study aimed to report our outcome of simple excision and compare with the reported results in literature. MethodRetrospective review was carried out in patients with distal ulnar exostoses excision who were operated from 2003 to 2011. Patients with less than 3 years of follow-up, radial head dislocation or subluxation, or within 3 years of skeletal maturity were excluded. Clinical outcome including range of forearm rotation was documented. Radiological outcomes including radial articular angle, carpal slip, ulnar variance and radial bowing were measured. The results were analysed statistically and compared with literature. ResultsFive cases were included in our study. All had excision of exostosis, and one case had additional ulnar lengthening. Mean age of operation was 10.4 years. Mean follow-up time was 72 months. Improvement was shown in the range of pronation, radial articular angle, carpal slip and ulnar variance, in the cases with simple excision alone. Improvements were mostly achieved at the first postoperative year. However, for the case with concomitant lengthening, ulna shortened relatively with growth, and complications were reported. This phenomenon is in keeping with the literature finding. ConclusionSimple excision of distal ulnar exostosis improves forearm rotation and provides some restoration of growth in skeletally immature patients with Masada type I deformity.

Current paediatric orthopaedic practice in hereditary multiple osteochondromas of the forearm: a systematic review.

Introduction: This systematic review aims to answer three research questions concerning the management of hereditary multiple osteochondromas of forearm in children: What is the best available evidence for the currently employed surgical procedures? What patient characteristics are associated with better prognosis? What disease characteristics are associated with better prognosis?Methods: We searched the literature using three major databases with no publication date restrictions. To enhance search sensitivity and maintain precision we used keywords/subject terms correlating with patient population, problem and interventions. We used strict inclusion/exclusion criteria to improve validity evidence.Results: The search process yielded 34 eligible studies with a total of 282 patients (315 forearms). We comprehensively analysed study and patient demographics and interventions and outcomes. Eleven studies (32%) had a long-term follow-up and 31 studies (91%) were retrospective. Of the total number of forearms, ulnar lengthening +/− associated procedures was used in 210 forearms (66.7%), isolated osteochondroma excision in 65 forearms (20.6%) and isolated distal radius hemiepiphysiodesis in 15 forearms (4.7%) among others.Discussion: Ulnar lengthening can restore radiologic anatomy, improve appearance and to a lesser extent objective clinical parameters like joint range of motion on the short/intermediate term. Isolated osteochondroma excision can relief pain and satisfy cosmetic concerns occasionally. There is poor evidence to suggest that surgery improves quality of life or function. Predictors of surgical success in regard to patient and disease characteristics remain elusive. Natural history and prospective randomized control studies where the control group receives no treatment should be rethought. They have the potential for bias control and identification of the ideal surgical candidate. The complex interplay between the confounding variables has undermined the capability of most studies to provide well-grounded evidence to support and generalize their conclusions. Valid quality of life scales should supplement objective outcome measures.

Management of congenital radial club hand by gradual correction

Introduction Severe congenital radial club hand is aesthetically unacceptable. This paper represents our experience in treating early and late diagnosed cases using gradual distraction by Ilizarov external fixator. Methods We treated 34 cases of congenital radial club hand with an age ranged from 1 to 15 years. There were 20 girls and eight bilateral cases. Three had been treated on both sides. So, we have treated 37 limbs. Nine cases had been operated before. Centralization alone was done in 12 cases and followed by lengthening in eight cases. Ulnar lengthening and gradual correction of wrist deformities were done for the rest of cases. The patients were followed clinically and radiographically with the following parameters: hand forearm angle, range of motion, daily functional activities, extent of lengthening achieved, and cosmetic improvement. Results The follow up ranged from 1 to 10 years. The magnitude of lengthening achieved ranged from 5 to 11 cm. The average healing index was 52.02 days/cm with cosmetic appearance satisfaction in all cases. Complications included; pin tract infection in 24 cases, flexion contractures of the elbow and fingers in 26 cases [which mostly disappeared during follow up], and spontaneous ulnocarpal fusion in 2 cases. Two cases suffered fracture in the regenerate zone. Conclusions The use of the Ilizarov method with gradual distraction of bone and soft tissues in treatment of radial club hand was effective in forearm lengthening with functional and cosmetic improvement.

Ulnar Distraction Osteogenesis in the Treatment of Forearm Deformities in Children With Multiple Hereditary Exostoses

To report on the outcomes of using ulnar lengthening combined with acute angular correction for the treatment of forearm deformities in patients affected by multiple hereditary exostoses (MHE). Our hypothesis was that this procedure would improve both radiographic measurements and clinical outcomes with minimal complications. A retrospective chart review was performed on patients who had a diagnosis of MHE and had undergone ulnar lengthening via a uniplanar external fixator over a 12-year period. Clinical outcomes such as range of motion, pain, and surgical complications were assessed. Radiographic changes were measured using interval radiographs. The series included 17 patients. Median age at surgery was 7 years (range, 3-14 years). Median follow up was 55 months (range, 5-125 months). Improvements occurred in radial and ulnar radii of curvature, carpal slip, ulnar variance, and carrying angle at the elbow. There was 1 major pin track infection. There were 2 failures of the external fixator requiring exchange. Premature consolidation occurred in 1 case. Elbow, forearm, and wrist motion was not affected. Radiocapitellar joint congruency did not change. No patient reported pain at final follow-up. Our approach of using distraction osteogenesis of the ulna with angular correction in the radius and ulna as needed is able to correct carpal slip as well as to improve forearm bowing and elbow carrying angle. All of the patients maintained congruency of the radiocapitellar joint with no postoperative dislocations. Because of the low complication rate, the resolution of pain in patients who presented with pain, and the improvement of forearm bowing, this approach should be considered as a treatment option for children with MHE who are at risk for radiocapitellar dislocation. Therapeutic IV.

Canine Elbow Realignment Osteotomy (CERO): Validation of the Accuracy of Acute Radial Lengthening in a Cadaveric Incongruency Model.

To verify the ability of a novel Canine Elbow Realignment Osteotomy (CERO) system for acute axial radial or ulnar lengthening to restore normal elbow congruency in a shortened radius cadaver model using assessment by computed tomography (CT). In vitro cadaver study. Five pairs of greyhound forelimbs from animals euthanatized for reasons unrelated to the study. CT of each elbow was performed (1) pre-operatively (pre-op), (2) after placement of a linear motor IMEX™ external skeletal fixator (ESF) on the radius with diaphyseal ostectomy and radial shorting of 1-5 mm (post-ESF), and (3) after CERO surgery to lengthen the radius proximal to the ostectomy site by an amount equal to the degree of radial shortening (post-CERO). The joint space at 7 loci on dorsal plane and 6 loci on sagittal plane reconstructions was measured to assess changes in joint congruity between pre-op, post-ESF, and post-CERO. Repeated measures ANOVA with post hoc comparisons were performed to compare measurements between the 3 groups. Mean joint space measurements at most loci in the dorsal and sagittal planes were significantly different post-ESF compared with pre-op, confirming development of joint incongruency with the model. Post-CERO joint space measurements did not differ significantly compared with pre-op measurements, demonstrating the return to normal joint congruency using the CERO procedure. CERO surgery restored humeroradioulnar congruency in our cadaver model and may have application for acute correction of axial radial or ulnar incongruency in canine elbows secondary to elbow dysplasia or premature growth plate closure.

Gradual ulnar lengthening in children with multiple exostoses and radial head dislocation: results at skeletal maturity.

PurposeDeformities of the forearm and shortening of the ulna occur in 30 % of patients with hereditary multiple exostoses (HME), leading to radial head dislocation and loss of movement. Several surgical techniques have been described for treatment, and the aim of our study was to present clinical and radiographic results at skeletal maturity in 15 children that underwent the surgical procedure of ulnar lengthening with external fixators.MethodsWe evaluated 15 patients with ulnar shortening and radial head dislocation that underwent external fixation procedures. Radiographic assessment included measurement of radial articular angle, carpal slip, and ulnar shortening. Clinical evaluation included range of motion, MAYO Elbow Score, assessment function of the extremity as described by Stanton, the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and SF-12 to evaluate quality of life.ResultsThe average follow-up period was 77 months and took place when each patient had reached skeletal maturity. MAYO Elbow Score improved from 34.7 to 93.3 points, while the average preoperative functional assessment criteria score was 1.6 points and improved to 4.4. The preoperative average VAS ranged from 8.2 to 2.3, while the SF-12 in its physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) components resulted, respectively, as 53.3 and 54.2. Pronation and supination improved from a preoperative average value of 35.6° and 51.3° to 70° and 80.6°, respectively, at the most recent follow-up visit. Flexion and extension ranged, respectively, from 143° and 2° to 146.7° and 3°. Ulnar shortening improved from 24 mm preoperative to 3 mm, and radial articular angle varied from 37.7° preoperative to 26° at the last follow-up. Only one complication occurred in our group, and one patient completely healed from a case of nonunion of the ulna.ConclusionsUlnar lengthening is a safe and reliable procedure for the treatment of HME that provides good to excellent results and reduces radial head dislocation.

Long-term results of Galeazzi-equivalent injuries in adolescents--open reduction and internal fixation of the ulna.

We diagnosed 10 Galeazzi-equivalent injuries. We report the radiological and clinical results at the end of growth in adolescents, including the results of ulnar lengthening. This study included 10 Galeazzi-equivalent injuries (seven patients requiring open reduction and three requiring closed reduction for ulnar lesions) seen since 2004. The periosteum was entrapped around the fractured physis in five patients and the extensor carpi ulnaris to the periosteum was interposed in two patients. Among the seven patients, ulnar lengthening was performed in only three patients. Ulnar variances at the time of the lengthening were -6, -6, and -5 mm. Gradual lengthening was performed. Radiologic abnormalities, including the ulnar variances, were investigated at the end of growth. In addition, pain scores, the range of wrist motion, and grip strength were evaluated and compared with nonlengthened ulnas. The mean age of the patients at the final follow-up was 19.7 years, and the mean total follow-up period was 6 years. The final ulnar variances were -5, -5, -3, and 0 mm in four patients with nonlengthened ulnas among the seven patients. Three patients with lengthened ulnas showed final neutral variances. In four nonlengthened ulnas, three ulnas bowed to the radial side and two ulnar heads had an inclined and deformed shape. Joint mismatch of the distal radioulnar joint surface was found in one patient with lengthened and one with nonlengthened ulnas. Three patients with nonlengthened ulnas showed decreased range of wrist motions. Comparison of contralateral grip strength indicated a significant difference between patients with or without lengthened ulnas. Long-term follow-up after Galeazzi-equivalent injuries may be essential to check for premature epiphyseal closure, length discrepancies, or joint incongruency. A procedure for a shortened ulna could be needed; however, the appropriate time and degree of lengthening remain to be investigated.