[Corrective radius operations. Indications and results]

Posttraumatic malunion usually results from incorrect treatment of Colles or Smith fracture. Chronic pains, limited motion and impaired power can be avoided and cosmetic appearance of the hand improved by restoration of the functional anatomy of the wrist. The malalignment is corrected by open wedge osteotomy of the distal end of the radius. A small iliae cortico-cancellus bone graft is inserted at the osteotomy site. By using this technique it is usually possible to avoid additional resection of the distal ulna. The surgical approach dorsal or volar is determined by the type of dislocation. The small T-plate offers stable fixation. The results are illustrated by 41 cases.