Shortening and derotation osteotomy for congenital radioulnar synostosis in children

Objective To describe a new procedure of shortening and derotation osteotomy for congenital proximal radioulnar synostosis and its clinical efficacy in children. Methods Six cases (8 joints) with congenital proximal radioulnar synostosis in children were undertaken shortening and derotation osteotomy at the radioulnar synostosis. The hones were placed in a functional position and fixed by two Kirschner wires to maintain skeletal stability. The elbow joints were immobilized in cast for 6～8 weeks after the operation. After 6～8 weeks,the cast and the wires were removed. Results Five cases (7 joints) were followed up for 18～60 months (average 28 months). Except 1 patient got ischemic contracture, the others had satisfactory limb functions. All of the shortening and derotation osteotomies at the radioulnar synostosis healed uneventfully. Conclusions Compared with the derotional osteotomy of proximal radioulnar synostosis or other derotional ostotomy, the shortening and derotation osteotomy might perform easily with fewer complications. This procedure is suitable for treatment of congenital proximal radioulnar synostosis. Key words: Joints,abnormalities;  Osteotomy