A novel surgical approach for treating distal radial extraarticular malunion: Oblique osteotomy with buttress plate...

Distal radial extraarticular malunions are not uncommon. However, requirements of surgical correction depend on multiple conditions. Traditionally, surgical techniques include closing or opening wedge osteotomies. Each has unique advantages and disadvantages. An oblique osteotomy was developed to simplify the revision surgery.

Forty-eight consecutive adult patients with 48 malunions were surgically treated. An oblique osteotomy of 45° vertical to the radial longitudinal axis was performed from medio-distally to latero-proximally. Consequently, the osteotomized fragments were compressed with a bone clamp. The proximal part of the distal fragment was pushed backward to correct the dorsal tilt. A 7-hole buttress plate was inserted volarly and cancellous bone graft was packed. Postoperatively, a short-arm splint or brace without restriction of all five metacarpophalangeal joints was applied for 6 weeks.

Forty-one patients were followed for an average of 2.8 years (range, 1.1-5.8 years). All malunions healed within 6 weeks. The union rate was 100% and no complications occurred. Radiographically, ulnar variance, volar tilt of radial articulation, and radial inclination restored to acceptable criteria in all patients. Patients with Modified Mayo Wrist Score (MMWS) improved from 17% to 80% ( p < 0.001) and Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) Score improved from 0% to 80% ( p < 0.001). The relationship between MMWS and DASH Score was highly correlated (correlation coefficient = -0.90).

The described approach may be an excellent alternative for treating distal radial extraarticular malunions. The technique is not difficult but the satisfactory rate is high.