Functional outcome after corrective osteotomy of the distal radius

Background. Malunited fractures of the distal radius frequently show disabling and painful reductions in active range of motion (AROM) of the wrist and forearm with reduced grip strength. Shortening and three-dimensional torsion of the distal radius occur with relative ulnar lengthening. Corrective osteotomy of the distal radius is indicated in these conditions. Methods. We examined 24 of 30 patients after corrective osteotomy with respect to AROM, grip strength, DASH, and pain perception (visual analogue scale). The mean age of the population was 49 years (1869 years), and the mean follow-up period was 22 months (6-63 months). Results. Preoperative extension/flexion was 65 degrees, postoperative 92 degrees (p < 0.05). Forearm rotation improved from 129 degrees preoperative to 160 degrees postoperative (p < 0.01). The DASH score could be reduced from 40 (n=9) to 18 (n=24). Grip strength increased from 17 kg to 27 kg postoperative (p < 0.01). Radioulnar inclination increased from 15 degrees preoperative to 24 degrees postoperative (p < 0.05). Relative ulnar lengthening could be minimized from 4.3 mm to 0.7 mm (p < 0.05). Conclusion. Data show that reconstruction of the distal radius improves grip strength and range of motion significantly with simultaneous reduction of pain perception and DASH scores.