Is it necessary to remove plates after surgery?
It is a simple procedure that is performed under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis, although with the pass of time the procedure becomes more difficult, as the plates gradually integrate with the bone. That is why it is not recommended to remove the plates after one year has passed since surgery.
How long does a distal ulna fracture take to heal?
They take an average of 3-6 months to completely heal. By six weeks, patients are extremely comfortable and usually are released to full activities such as manual labor, skiing and motocross by three to four months. Aggressive return to activity too early can result in re-fracture, hardware breakage or non-union.
When to use the distal ulnar hook plate?
In multifragmentary ulnar fractures, there is instability and shortening, so the distal ulnar hook plate may be useful to hold distal multifragmentary fractures. Attention should be paid to restoring correct rotation and correct length in relation to the radius.
How to dissect the distal shaft of the ulna?
Take great care to avoid the dorsal sensory branch of the ulnar nerve, which crosses the bone at this level to supply the dorsal skin of the hand. Once the distal shaft of the ulna is visible, subperiosteal dissection will allow the fracture fragments to be visualized and reduced. 10 DePuy SynthesLCP Distal Ulna Plate Surgical Technique
What kind of incision to make for ulna fracture?
Make a longitudinal skin incision over the palpable ulna. Take great care to avoid the dorsal sensory branch of the ulnar nerve, which crosses the bone at this level to supply the dorsal skin of the hand. Once the distal shaft of the ulna is visible, subperiosteal dissection will allow the fracture fragments to be visualized and reduced.
What are the signs of a distal ulna fracture?
Indications Fractures of the distal ulna which result in instability of the distal radioulnar joint Fractures of the ulna head where the articular surface is either displaced, rotated or tilted. displaced articular surface rotated articular surface tilted articular surface LCP Distal Ulna Plate Surgical Technique DePuy Synthes5
When was the cast removed after a hairline ulna fracture?
Posted 4 years ago, 15 users are following. I had plate and screws inserted after distal radius fracture and hairline ulna fracture which displaced after manipulation in A+E just over 6 weeks ago. Cast removed at 4 weeks to start early mobilisation.
Where to place a plate for an oblique ulnar fracture?
With more distal fractures, plates should be placed in the interval between the extensor and flexor carpi ulnaris muscles (C). While plate position on the tensile (subcutaneous) aspect of the ulna (C) is biomechanically preferable, plate prominence can be a problem and cause irritation.
When does a fracture of the distal radius cause a positive ulnar variance?
Neutral ulnar variance is when the borders of the radius and ulna are level across in height. A common complication following fracture of the distal radius is when the radius shortens. This leads to what is know as a positive ulnar variance.
What happens to the distal radioulnar joint after a fracture?
Instability of the distal radioulnar joint following a distal radius fracture occurs in conjunction with a TFCC tear. Other factors suggestive of instability are widening of the joint on x-ray, a positive ulnar variance, and a shortened radius.