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Growth and development of the distal radius and ulna

J W Pritchett1

  • 1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle 98144, USA.

Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics
|September 1, 1996
PubMed

Insights

Wrist and forearm deformities can stem from radius and ulna growth issues. This study established normal growth patterns, aiding in early detection of discrepancies.

Area of Science:

  • Orthopedics
  • Pediatric Growth and Development
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Wrist and forearm deformities can arise from abnormal growth of the radius and ulna.
  • Understanding normal growth patterns is crucial for diagnosing skeletal discrepancies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To establish normal growth patterns of the distal radial and ulnar growth plates in children.
  • To provide reference data for the early detection of growth discrepancies in the wrist and forearm.

Main Methods:

  • Measurements of the distance between the distal radial and ulnar growth plates were taken in 244 healthy children.
  • Data were collected from a cohort of middle-class American children, primarily of Northwest European descent.

Main Results:

  • After age 5, the distance between the distal radial and ulnar growth plates progressively decreased.
  • This distance reached a mean of zero by age 13 in girls and age 15 in boys.

Conclusions:

  • Established measurements define normal wrist appearance during growth.
  • These findings facilitate the early identification of radius and ulna growth discrepancies.

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