Fibular autografts for distal defects of the radius

A protocol for osteoarticular grafting was established to avoid fracture, nonunion, and loss of motion when replacing the distal radius. Proximal fibular autografts were used and stabilized proximally by compression plating and, at the wrist, by ligamentous reconstruction. Postoperative splinting and therapy were coordinated with graft healing, which was monitored by bone scans and roentgenograms. Graft incorporation in three patients appeared to be well-established within 1 year, but functional use of the extremity and return to duty were achieved much earlier.