[A probe to the treatment of Madelung deformity].

OBJECTIVE: To explore a method of treating Madelung deformity.

METHODS: Seven cases of Madelung deformity had been treated with the excision of ulnar carpi ulnaris segment and distal osteotomy of radius and tight constrict of extensor carpi ulnaris from Mar. 2000 to Nov. 2003. The angle of ulnar tilting was 37-70 degrees and the angle of volar tilting was over 16 degrees. A longitudinal incision on each side of the radius and ulnar was made, the ulna was excised about 2-3 cm segment. Then the fracture of ulna was fixed by double across vertical steel wire and the radius was fixed with medullary wire. Lastly the extensor carpi ulnaris was shortened and sutured after the wrist was located rest-position.

RESULTS: After surgery, the deformity of wrist was improved and pain-free in the seven cases. The angle of ulnar tilting was reduced to 22-24 degrees. The angle of volar tilting was reduced to 15 degrees below. Follow-ups were conducted in the 7 patients for 2 years in average. The activity of wrist joint and the rotation of forearm recovered from those before operation. The wrist joint could stretch fully.

CONCLUSION: This method of treating Madelung proves to be effective in recovering deformity, releasing pain, improving function, and reducing traumatic osteoarthritics of the distal radioulnar joint.