Radial Shortening Osteotomy

IF YOU NEED A RADIAL SHORTENING OSTEOTOMY, PLEASE SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH ONE OF OUR ORTHOPEDIC SPECIALISTS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

What is a Radial Shortening Osteotomy?

Surgeons perform radial shortening osteotomy to address conditions such as Madelung deformity or ulnar impaction syndrome, where the ulna bone in the forearm surpasses the radius bone in length, causing pain and limited mobility. During the procedure, they precisely cut the radius bone and remove a small section to effectively shorten it. This procedure aims to rebalance the length of the forearm bones, alleviating pressure on the wrist joint and enhancing function. After surgery, patients engage in a period of rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility in the affected arm. This procedure stands as an effective treatment option for individuals experiencing symptoms associated with forearm bone length discrepancies.

Types of Procedures

Several types of this procedure exist, each tailored to address specific conditions and anatomical considerations. Surgeons perform a dorsal closing wedge osteotomy by making a cut on the back (dorsal) side of the radius bone and removing a wedge-shaped section to shorten the bone. Another technique, the volar closing wedge osteotomy, involves making a cut on the front (volar) side of the radius bone. Surgeons may also perform an open-wedge osteotomy, creating a gap in the bone and stabilizing it with a bone graft to maintain the desired length. Additionally, arthroscopic-assisted radial shortening osteotomy utilizes minimally invasive techniques with smaller incisions. Surgeons sometimes combine this procedure with other procedures to address additional wrist or forearm issues concurrently. Overall, the choice of technique depends on factors such as the patient’s condition, the surgeon’s expertise, and the desired outcome.

Radial Head Shortening Osteotomy Recovery

Patients recovering from rthis procedure progress through several stages aimed at promoting healing and restoring function to the affected arm. After surgery, patients may experience discomfort, swelling, and limited mobility, which healthcare providers manage with pain medication and elevation of the arm. Shortly after surgery, both physical and occupational therapy commence to promote range of motion, strengthen the muscles surrounding the elbow and wrist, and improve overall function. Throughout the healing process, patients gradually increase their activity levels under the guidance of their healthcare providers. Adhering to the rehabilitation regimen and closely following the surgeon’s instructions is crucial for optimizing recovery. With dedication to rehabilitation and adherence to post-operative care guidelines, most patients can expect to regain full function and return to their normal activities within a few months following radial shortening osteotomy.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SPEAK TO AN ORTHOPEDIC HAND AND WRIST SPECIALIST IN DALLAS, FORT WORTH, OR THE LONE STAR STATE, GIVE US A CALL AT 817-697-4038, OR CONTACT US OVER THE WEB. TELE-MEDICINE APPOINTMENTS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE.