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14 Jul 2025
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Forearm Fractures of Necessity: A Triad of Instability in Adults


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Clinical Details

Clinical and radiological findings:  Three adult patients presented with forearm injuries, each demonstrating instability akin to a "ring" failure. Case 1 involved a proximal ulna fracture with radiocapitellar joint dislocation and proximal radioulnar joint (PRUJ) disruption, classified as Bado Type I. Case 2 presented with a distal one-third radius fracture and distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability. Case 3 was a high-energy injury with both forearm bones fractured, including a displaced ulnar segment and styloid fracture, raising suspicion for an Essex-Lopresti injury. Radiological assessment confirmed the respective fracture patterns and joint instabilities.

Preoperative Plan

Planning remarks:  For Case 1, the plan involved anatomical reduction of the ulna to achieve radiocapitellar joint reduction, with potential repair of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL) if required. Case 2 required anatomical fixation of the radius to assess DRUJ stability post-fixation. In Case 3, anatomical fixation of both bones was planned, with cross pinning of the DRUJ due to instability.

Surgical Discussion

Patient positioning:  Supine positioning was utilized for all cases, with the affected arm placed on a radiolucent arm table to facilitate intraoperative imaging and manipulation.

Anatomical surgical approach:  For Case 1, a posterior approach to the elbow was employed, allowing access to the proximal ulna and radiocapitellar joint. Case 2 involved a volar approach to the distal radius. In Case 3, a dual approach was necessary: a volar approach for the radius and a separate incision for the ulna.

Operative remarks: 

In Case 1, despite anatomical reduction of the ulna, persistent instability necessitated LUCL repair to stabilize the elbow. Case 2's DRUJ remained stable post-radius fixation, negating further intervention. In Case 3, significant DRUJ instability post-fixation required cross pinning in neutral pronation/supination using 2.0mm K-wires, left proud for easy retrieval if breakage occurred.

Postoperative protocol:   Postoperative rehabilitation for Case 1 included early mobilization with elbow range of motion exercises while protecting the LUCL repair. Case 2 involved splinting in full supination for six weeks to maintain DRUJ stability. Case 3 required immobilization in neutral rotation with gradual range of motion exercises initiated after wire removal.

Follow up:   Not specified.

Orthopaedic implants used:   Orthopaedic implants used included: - Case 1: Plates and screws for ulna fixation, suture anchors for LUCL repair. - Case 2: Volar locking plate for radius fixation. - Case 3: Plates and screws for both bones, 2.0mm K-wires for DRUJ stabilization.

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