[An anatomical study on the interosseous membrane of the forearm]

The anatomy of the interosseous membrane (IOM) was studied in 117 forearms from sixty cadavers (average age; 73 years old) for the purpose of optimizing the osteotomy portion in forearm lengthening, or in osteotomy for an old Monteggia fracture. The morphological anatomy of the interosseous membrane, and its relation anatomically to the surrounding structures were investigated. A total of 68.4% of the IOM was classified as Type 1a or 1 b, in which one cord-like portion was observed. The accessory cord-like portion was found in 57.8% of the forearms. The cord-like portion was attached at a position of 39.6-54.8% from the distal end of the radial bone and at 21.9-42.1% from the distal end of the ulnar bone (average rate per forearm length). The accessory cord-like portion was attached at a position of 48.9-53.3% from the distal end of the radial bone and at 56.9-61.8% from the distal end of the ulnar bone. From there results, the optimal portion for osteotomy in forearm lengthening and in old Monteggia fracture was determined to minimize the anatomical and functional damage to the forearm.