Isolated fractures of the ulnar shaft

In a prospective study from January 1985 to December 1987, 60 consecutive patients with isolated fractures of the shaft of the ulna were divided into two groups. In group I, 28 patients were treated with plaster-of-Paris cast splintage, while in group II, 32 patients were given an elastic crêpe bandage support and were mobilized early. Average time to union in group I was 10.8 weeks while in group II it was 7.8 weeks. Two fractures in group I did not unite, whereas there was no case of non-union in group II. Isolated fractures of the ulna can be treated successfully with minimal support and early mobilization.