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Ulnar shortening using the AO small distractor
1Pennsylvania Hand Center, Bryn Mawr 19010, USA.
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|November 1, 1995
Summary
Ulnar shortening osteotomy effectively treats ulnar impaction syndrome. This study shows a simple surgical technique using external compression and plating achieves reliable bone healing without complex instrumentation.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Hand and wrist surgery
Background:
- Ulnar impaction syndrome can cause wrist pain and dysfunction.
- Surgical intervention, such as ulnar shortening osteotomy, is often necessary.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a simplified ulnar shortening osteotomy technique.
- To assess outcomes using external compression and standard plating.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 24 patients with ulnar impaction syndrome.
- Performed transverse ulnar osteotomy with external compression and 2.7-mm dynamic compression plating.
- Average follow-up of 32 months.
Main Results:
- All 24 cases achieved clinical and radiographic union.
- Average union time was 9.7 weeks.
- No nonunions were reported.
Conclusions:
- Transverse ulnar shortening osteotomy with external compression and plating is a straightforward and effective treatment.
- Complex instrumentation is not required for successful outcomes in ulnar impaction syndrome.