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Isolated ulnar shaft fractures treated with functional braces
A Sarmiento1, L L Latta, G Zych
1Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, University of Miami, Florida, USA.
Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma
|August 26, 1998
Summary
Functional bracing effectively treats isolated ulnar shaft fractures, achieving a 99% union rate. This method offers good to excellent functional outcomes for most patients, making it a viable therapeutic option.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Traumatology
- Biomechanical engineering
Background:
- Isolated ulnar shaft fractures are common injuries.
- Optimal management strategies for these fractures are continually being refined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of functional bracing for isolated ulnar shaft fractures.
- To report union rates and functional outcomes associated with this treatment modality.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 444 patients with isolated ulnar shaft fractures treated with functional bracing.
- Braces allowed full range of motion and were applied within one week of injury.
- Outcomes assessed included fracture union, angulation, and forearm range of motion.
Main Results:
- Follow-up was available for 65% of patients (287).
- A 99% union rate was achieved.
- Average radial angulation was 5 degrees, dorsal angulation was 5 degrees, and ulnar shortening averaged 1.1 mm.
- Pronation loss varied by fracture location, with proximal fractures showing greater loss.
Conclusions:
- Functional bracing is a successful treatment for isolated ulnar shaft fractures.
- It demonstrates a high union rate (99%) and excellent functional results (over 96%).