Surgical Treatment of Diaphyseal Fractures of Both Forearm Bones in Adolescents

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the results of surgical treatment for diaphyseal fractures of both forearm bones in adolescents. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between March 2005 and February 2009, fifteen adolescents with diaphyseal fractures in both forearm bones were treated with a compression plate for the ulnar fractures and intramedullary pin fixation for the radial fractures. They were clinically and radiologically evaluated retrospectively. RESULTS: The mean time for radiological bone union was 9.2 weeks. At the last follow up, the rotational deformity and angulation were within seven degrees and evaluations of the functional results were excellent in all cases. One patient had a refracture of the ulna after plate removal, which was treated with a long-arm cast. CONCLUSION: The use of a compression plate for the ulnar fractures and intramedullary pin fixation for the radial fractures can be an effective method for unstable displaced diaphyseal fractures of both forearm bones in adolescents.