Lengthening of the forearm by the Ilizarov technique

The Ilizarov technique was used for lengthening 13 forearms in 12 patients. The different types of treatment were: lengthening of the radius alone, lengthening of the ulna alone with or without radial head relocation, lengthening of one-bone forearms, lengthening of the radius and ulna to the same extent, and differential lengthening of the radius and ulna. The lengthenings ranged from 2 cm to 13 cm (10%-143%). Bone consolidation was achieved in three to 19 months without the need for bone grafting. Eleven of 12 patients were functionally and cosmetically improved. In nine patients, the cosmetic improvement made a significant psychologic difference to the patient. There were 11 complications, including three temporary deep radial nerve palsies, one sympathetic dystrophy, one malunion, one delayed malunion, two refractures, and three mild loss of motion. All of these dysfunctions were temporary, but mild stiffness persisted in three patients. The goals of treatment were achieved in all patients.