Anatomic considerations for anterior approaches to the ulna

Anterior approaches to the ulna were studied on 22 cadaveric forearms as alternative approaches to the ulnar shaft. An anterior approach is indicated when there is extensive posterior scar tissue, or extensive soft tissue loss in the posterior forearm as in some fresh fractures, or when a tumor is resected from the anterior ulna. This study describes and compares the traditional anteromedial approach to the ulna with a proposed anterior approach, and defines the exact relations of the different anatomic structures seen in each approach.