Effects of Malunited Fractured Distal End of Radius on the Morphometric Parameters of Distal Radioulnar Joint in Old Age Group

Abstract

Background:Fifteen per cent of all upper limb fractures occur in distal end of the radius. Occurrence of such fracture has increased in last 50 years. Normal values of four radiographic distal radius parameters are commonly used for accurately evaluating malunions i.e., a radial length of 11to 12 mm, a radial inclination of 22 to 23, an ulnar variance of 1mm and a palmar inclination of approximately 11 to12. Our clinical practice is based on western figure due to the absence of the local database. Methods: Study was carried out on seventeen elderly (>50yr) females. Invariably the patients have a unilateral radial fracture belonging to universal classification type-? Results: Data of normal and malunited distal radius for each parameter were compared. In old age mean differences showed by radial length, radial inclination, ulnar variance and palmar tilt were 2.47 mm, 9.36, 1.85 mm and 5.59 respectively Conclusion: Most of our patients with radial shortening and increased dorsal tilt have pain and diminished grip strength, therefore restoration of radial length has been considered the most important determinant of functional outcome.