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Ulnar lengthening in juvenile chronic arthritis
A B Mink van der Molen1, M A Hall, D M Evans
1Department of Plastic Surgery, Wexham Park Hospital, Slough, UK.
Journal of Hand Surgery (Edinburgh, Scotland)
|September 3, 1998
Summary
Ulnar lengthening surgery in children with juvenile chronic arthritis can safely stabilize the wrist, improve appearance and function, and reduce the need for splinting.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Rheumatology
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Juvenile chronic arthritis causes severe wrist destruction and misalignment.
- Previous splinting methods often fail to preserve wrist alignment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of distraction lengthening of the ulna in children with juvenile chronic arthritis.
- To assess the procedure's impact on wrist alignment, carpal stability, appearance, and function.
Main Methods:
- Ten wrists in eight children with severe wrist deformities underwent ulnar lengthening.
- The average age at operation was 13.8 years, with an average follow-up of 70 months.
Main Results:
- Ulnar lengthening was performed safely.
- The procedure stabilized the carpus, improved appearance, and potentially enhanced function.
- External splint use was eliminated in most cases.
- Results remained stable for 3-5 years.
Conclusions:
- Distraction lengthening of the ulna is a safe and effective treatment for severe wrist deformities in juvenile chronic arthritis.
- This surgical technique offers significant benefits in terms of stability, function, and reduced reliance on external supports.