Ulnar Shortening Osteotomy
If you need a ulnar shortening osteotomy, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.
What Is An Ulnar Shortening Osteotomy?
Ulnar shortening osteotomy is a surgical procedure designed to address problems associated with the ulna, the longer of the two forearm bones. When the ulna becomes too long, it can cause pain, instability, or discomfort in the wrist, leading to conditions such as ulnar impaction syndrome. This procedure involves shortening the ulna to reduce the stress on the wrist joint, improving both function and pain relief. Ulnar shortening osteotomy is particularly effective for patients who suffer from chronic wrist pain due to conditions like degenerative arthritis or injuries.
Causes of Ulnar Impaction Syndrome
Ulnar impaction syndrome occurs when the ulna is longer than the radius, which leads to abnormal pressure on the wrist joint. This imbalance can cause cartilage wear and tear, inflammation, and pain. Several factors contribute to ulnar impaction syndrome, including:
- Congenital Abnormalities: Some people are born with an ulna that is longer than the radius.
- Previous Injuries: Fractures or trauma to the radius may result in the ulna becoming relatively longer.
- Degenerative Conditions: Conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can cause changes to the length and alignment of the bones over time.
Symptoms of Ulnar Impaction Syndrome
Patients with ulnar impaction syndrome often experience:
- Wrist Pain: Pain at the base of the wrist, especially with activities like gripping, lifting, or rotating the wrist.
- Swelling: Swelling around the wrist joint, especially after physical activity.
- Decreased Range of Motion: A reduced ability to move the wrist, making it difficult to perform daily tasks.
- Instability: The wrist may feel weak or unstable, particularly when performing certain movements.
If left untreated, ulnar impaction syndrome can lead to more severe damage to the wrist joint and surrounding tissues.
The Ulnar Shortening Osteotomy Procedure
Ulnar shortening osteotomy aims to reduce the length of the ulna to restore balance in the wrist. Here’s how the procedure works:
- Anesthesia: The surgery is performed under general or regional anesthesia to ensure the patient is comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.
- Incision: The surgeon makes an incision on the side of the wrist to access the ulna.
- Bone Shortening: The surgeon carefully removes a portion of the ulna to shorten it. This helps restore proper alignment and relieves pressure on the wrist joint.
- Fixation: After shortening the bone, the surgeon uses screws or plates to stabilize the bone while it heals.
- Closure: The incision is closed with sutures, and a bandage is applied to protect the surgical site.
The entire procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours and is usually performed on an outpatient basis, meaning the patient can go home the same day.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
After ulnar shortening osteotomy, the patient will need to wear a cast or splint for several weeks to protect the wrist and allow the bone to heal. Pain and swelling are common in the first few days after surgery, but these can be managed with prescribed pain medications and ice packs.
Rehabilitation is essential for regaining wrist strength and mobility. Physical therapy typically starts after the bone has healed sufficiently, focusing on gentle range-of-motion exercises to improve flexibility and restore function. Most patients can return to normal activities within 3 to 6 months, although heavy lifting and strenuous activities may need to be avoided for a longer period.
Benefits of Ulnar Shortening Osteotomy
Ulnar shortening osteotomy provides several advantages for patients suffering from ulnar impaction syndrome:
- Pain Relief: By realigning the wrist joint and reducing pressure, the procedure alleviates chronic pain.
- Improved Wrist Function: The surgery restores normal wrist motion, making it easier to perform everyday tasks.
- Long-Term Solution: Ulnar shortening osteotomy is a durable treatment that can provide long-lasting relief from wrist issues.
If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.
