Correction and lengthening for deformities of the forearm in multiple cartilaginous exostoses.

BACKGROUND Multiple cartilaginous exostoses cause various deformities of the epiphysis. In exostoses of the ulna, the ulna is shortened and the radius acquires varus deformity, which may lead to dislocation of the radial head. In this study, we present the results of exostoses resection, with correction and lengthening with external fixators for functional and cosmetic improvement, and prevention of radial head dislocation. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed seven forearms of seven patients who had deformities of the forearm associated with multiple cartilaginous exostoses. One patient had dislocation of the radial head. Operative technique was excision of osteochondromas from the distal ulna, correction of the radius, and ulnar lengthening with external fixation up to 5 mm plus variance. We evaluated radiographs and the range of pronation and supination. Furthermore, we conducted a follow-up of ulnar length after the operation. RESULTS Dislocation of the radial head of one patient was naturally reduced without any operative intervention. At the most recent follow-up, six of the seven patients showed full improvement in pronation-supination. Ulnar shortening recurred with skeletal growth of four skeletally immature patients; however, it did not recur in one skeletally mature patient. Overlength of 5 mm was negated by the recurrence of ulnar shortening about 1.5 years after the operation. CONCLUSIONS We treated seven forearms of seven patients by excision of osteochondromas, correction of radii, and gradual lengthening of ulnas with external fixators. The results of the procedure were satisfactory, especially for function of the elbow and wrist. However, we must consider the possible recurrence of ulnar shortening within about 1.5 years during skeletal growth periods in immature patients.