[Complex disorders of radius and ulna in childhood]

Treatment of congenital or acquired disturbances of the radius or ulna always requires recognition of the complex biomechanics of the forearm. In particular trauma, seemingly restricted to one of the bones, should caution against concomitant lesions to the other bone. The typical example is unfortunately the often missed dislocation of the capitulum radii in Monteggia-type lesions. Additional examples are deranged growth of the distal epiphysis of the radius after a fracture of the ulna, in association with multiple osteochondromas and of the proximal epiphysis of the radius in presumptively congenital dislocation of the capitum radii. Lesions encountered in children have to be analyzed carefully with respect to dynamics of maldevelopment. Corrections that have implications for neighbouring articulations should be undertaken with the intent to fully exploit the potential for remodelling by forthcoming growth processes.