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Ulnar shortening with the ulna osteotomy locking plate
1Departement for Trauma Surgery and Sports Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria. gernot.schmidle@uki.at
Operative Orthopadie Und Traumatologie
|June 30, 2012
Summary
This study introduces a new ulnar shortening device for ulnocarpal unloading, achieving good clinical results and bone union in most patients with idiopathic ulnar impaction syndrome.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Biomechanics of the wrist
Background:
- Ulnar shortening osteotomy is a procedure to address ulnar impaction syndrome.
- Existing methods may have limitations in achieving stable fixation and controlled compression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a novel ulnar shortening device designed for ulnocarpal unloading.
- To assess the safety and efficacy of this new construct in patients undergoing ulnar shortening osteotomy.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 16 ulnar shortening osteotomies in 15 patients using a new locking plate construct.
- The technique involved parallel osteotomies, rotation-secured compression, and hybrid stabilization with a lag screw.
- Postoperative management included a cast and limited forearm rotation.
Main Results:
- Bone union was achieved in a median of 10 weeks.
- An average ulnar shortening of 3.7 mm was obtained, leading to good clinical outcomes.
- One case of nonunion was reported in the series.
Conclusions:
- The novel ulnar shortening device provides a stable and effective method for ulnocarpal unloading.
- This technique shows promise for treating conditions like idiopathic ulnar impaction syndrome and posttraumatic deformities.
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