Outcome in corrective osteotomy for malunited distal radius fractures.

BACKGROUND This article reports outcome in osteotomy for malunion of distal radius fractures. MATERIAL AND METHODS We evaluated 12 patients with distal radius malunion (mean age 54), who were treated with corrective osteotomy. Wrist motion and grip strength were evaluated, along with examination of pre and post osteotomy radiographs. The indications for corrections were degree of deformity, limitation of function, pain, and the appearance of the wrist. RESULTS The radiographic evaluation proved that the restoration of the normal anatomic relationship between the distal radius and ulna leads to significant improvement of the function of the hand, as measured by range of motion and grip strength. CONCLUSION Osteotomy of the distal radius in cases of malunion gives favorable outcomes.