Management of radial clubhand with gradual distraction followed by centralization

Treatment of radial clubhand has progressed over the years from no treatment to aggressive surgical correction. Various surgical methods of correction have been described; Centralization of the carpus over the distal end of the ulna has become the method of choice. Corrective casting prior to centralization is an easy and effective method of obtaining soft tissue stretching before any definitive procedure is undertaken. Moreover, it helps put the limb in a correct position. The outcome of deformity correction by serial casting / JESS distractor followed by centralization is discussed.

In a prospective study, of 17 cases with 18 radial clubhands of Heikel's Grade III and IV (with average age 11 months (range 20 days - 24 months) with M:F of 2.6:1, were treated by gradual soft tissue stretching using corrective cast (14 cases) and JESS distraction (4 cases), followed by centralization (16 cases) or radialization (2 cases) and tendon transfers.

The average correction attained during the study was 71 degrees of radial deviation and 31 degrees of volar flexion. The average third metacarpal to distal ulna angle in anteroposterior and lateral view at final follow-up was 7 degrees in both views. Angle of movement at elbow showed a small increase from 99 degrees to 101 degrees during the follow-up period. However, the range of movement at fingers showed increase in stiffness during the follow-up. No injury occurred to the distal ulnar epiphysis during the operative intervention. The results at the final follow-up, at the end of 2 years were graded on the basis of the criteria of F.W. Bora, and of Bayne and Klug. Considering the criteria of F.W. Bora, satisfactory result was shown by nine of the 18 hands (50%) while 16 out of 18 hands (89%) showed good or satisfactory result based on deformity criteria of Bayne and Klug.

The management of radial clubhand by gradual corrective cast or JESS distractor followed by centralization and tendon transfers in children is an acceptable method of treatment with consistently satisfactory results, both functional and cosmetic.