Long-Term Follow-Up of Ulnar Growth in Radial Dysplasia Treated by a Combination of Distraction and Radialization

To study the long-term results of radial club hand, regarding ulna growth, radial angulation, and volar subluxation using a 2-stage treatment protocol.

From 1998 to 2009, 39 radial club hands (32 patients) were treated with distraction, radialization, and a bilobed flap. Long-term follow-up was available in 13 patients (17 hands; average 12.6 years, range 9-16 years). All 17 hands were classified as Bayne and Klug grade 3 or 4.

The average age at distraction was 12 months (SD 5.3). The average age at radialization was 14 months (SD 5.8). At final follow-up, the average ulna length on the involved side was 69.3% of the uninvolved contralateral side in the unilateral cases. In the 4 bilateral cases, the average ulna length was 62% of the ulna length of a cohort of normal children. The transverse diameter of the ulna in the posteroanterior view was 79%, and in the lateral view 99%, of the radius on the contralateral side in the unilateral cases. The average radial deviation improved from 82° to 8° and the average volar subluxation improved from 20° to 12°. However, in 4 hands recurrent volar subluxation and required revision surgery.

This approach to treatment was associated with consistent results in the correction of the radial angulation, volar subluxation, and ulna growth in long-term follow-up. Volar subluxation may result in a requirement for revision.

Therapeutic IV.