The effect of distal radius translation in the coronal plane on forearm rotation: a cadaveric study of distal radius fractures.

Abstract

PURPOSE:

To determine the effect of lateral translation of the distal radius in the coronal plane on forearm rotation after distal radius fracture.

METHODS:

Ten fresh cadaveric limbs underwent distal radius osteotomy just proximal to the distal radial-ulnar joint to simulate an extra-articular distal radius fracture. We used an Agee Wrist Jack external fixator to create increasing magnitudes of distal fragment lateral translation in 2-mm increments. Forearm rotation was measured using a 3-dimensional camera at each magnitude of lateral translation.

RESULTS:

Total forearm rotation for the intact specimen and 2, 4, 6, and 8 mm (maximal) radial translations was 186° ± 53°, 188° ± 54°, 189° ± 55°, 190° ± 57°, and 193° ± 59°, respectively. There was no significant difference for any magnitude of radial translation. The average maximal radial translation possible before radioulnar abutment was 8 ± 0.5 mm.

CONCLUSIONS:

In this cadaveric model, translation of the distal radius fragment in the lateral direction had no effect on forearm rotation.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE:

At the level of the proximal border of the distal radioulnar joint, isolated distal radius translation does not significantly affect forearm rotation.

• Authors: C Tate Hepper, Michael A Tsai, Brent G Parks, Norman H Dubin, Kenneth R Means Jr
• Journal: The Journal of hand surgery (J Hand Surg Am) Vol. 39 Issue 4 Pg. 651-5 (Apr 2014) ISSN: 1531-6564 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 24576752 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2014 American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Topics

• Aged
• Aged, 80 and over
• External Fixators
• Forearm
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Osteotomy
• Radius Fractures (physiopathology, surgery)
• Rotation