Radial head dislocation during proximal radial shaft osteotomy

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Traumatology
• Upper extremity reconstruction

Background:

• A 48-year-old female presented with a long-standing both-bone forearm malunion.
• Symptoms included wrist pain and limited rotational function.

Observation:

• Preoperative templating was performed for radius and ulna osteotomies.
• Intraoperative discovery of radial head subluxation during radial shaft osteotomy.

Findings:

• The initial opening wedge radial osteotomy was revised to a closing wedge technique.
• This revision successfully improved forearm alignment and restored rotational capacity.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of intraoperative assessment for radial head stability during forearm osteotomies.
• Provides insights into managing intraoperative complications for improved surgical outcomes.
• Offers strategies to prevent similar issues in future forearm malunion reconstructions.