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J Wrist Surg 2021; 10(04): 341-346
DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1716862
Case Report

Restricted Wrist Rotation after an Ulnar Head Fracture: A Report of Two Cases

Tomoyuki Kato
1   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ogikubo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
2   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
,
Koji Abe
2   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
3   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, School of Medicine, International University of Health and Welfare, Chiba, Japan
,
Kazuki Sato
1   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ogikubo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
,
Toshiyasu Nakamura
2   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
3   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, School of Medicine, International University of Health and Welfare, Chiba, Japan
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Abstract

Background Isolated ulnar head fracture is a rare entity, and the restriction of range of motion in the wrist is rarely reported.

Case Description We report two cases of conservatively treated ulnar head malunion with restricted supination and pronation. The increased tension of the volar portion of the triangular fibrocartilage complex was observed, and the surgical treatment significantly improved the range of motion.

Literature Review There are a few reports on isolated ulnar head fracture. Other causes of restricted supination and pronation of the wrist are mostly due to the interposition of soft tissues or loose bodies.

Clinical Relevance Malunion after ulnar head fracture can cause restriction of wrist supination and pronation. Surgical intervention may be considered if restricted range of motion remains after conservative treatment.

Keywords

ulna head fracture - supination - triangular fibrocartilage complex

Note

The work was performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine.




Publication History

Received: 12 June 2020

Accepted: 11 August 2020

Article published online:
16 October 2020

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