Surgical correction of deformities of the distal radius due to fractures in pediatric patients

Introduction. The indication and treatment of malunited fractures of the distal radius in the growing skeleton differ from those for adults. The literature results are scarce. In this study we examined the results of surgical correction following fractures of the distal radius in infants. Materials and methods. Seven infant patients with malaligned fractures of the distal radius that demonstrated significant functional deficit and poor prognosis for spontanous recovery were treated with surgical correction. Two of them were treated because of growth disturbance from post-traumatic closure of the distal radial physis. Results. All seven osteotomies healed with acceptable radiologic alignment. After an average follow-up period of 3 years and 1 month (range 10 months to 8 years and 4 months), patients had an average range of wrist motion (ROM) of 131 deg in extension and flexion (93% of the contralateral side, 130% of presurgical situation); 65 deg in ulnar and radial deviation (94% of the contralateral side, 122% of presurgical situation); and 177 deg in pronation and supination of the forearm (97% of the contralateral side, 115% of presurgical situation). The average grip strength of 71.4 kPa was nearly equal to the other side with 72.8 kPa. The average postoperative angulation of the distal radius was 12 (range 10-17) deg, the radial inclination 20 (range 12-30) deg, and the ulnar variance was -0.6 (range -3 to +2) mm. According to the Fernandez point score system as well as the scale of Fernandez, there were five excellent results and two good results. The patients described low disability on the DASH scores, with a median of 4 (range 0-41) points. Conclusions. Surgical correction for malunited fractures of the distal radius provides good and excellent radiological and functional results in the growing skeleton. It should be considered immediately if there is poor remodeling capacity and disabling loss of function.