DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2017.v05i01.037

Pages: 180-183

Anatomical reduction and internal fixation of forearm fractures can facilitate restoration of function. Any axial or rotatory malalignment or any narrowing of interosseous space produces disproportionate loss of pronation and supination. In addition proximal and distal radioulnar joints do not function properly if there is significant shortening of either bone. This is not the case in other long bones where shortening or loss of axial and rotatory alignment does not compromise the result. The aim of study is to analyse our results in open reduction and internal fixation of fractures of forearm bones with DCP and Rush nailing in terms of rate of union, the functional outcome, rate of complications and comparison with the results of other authors. The study was conducted between February 2015-November 2016 in Shadan Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, and 25 patients sustained 48 fractures of forearm bones. They are treated by either plating or rush nailing. Patients were examined clinically and radiologically at periodical intervals of 4-6 weeks for a period ranging from 6-40 weeks. Inclusion criteria are closed and open fractures in adults in diaphyseal region, fractures in children when significantly displaced. Exclusion criteria are pathological fractures, incomplete or undisplaced fractures in adults and fractures in children with minimal displacement. After assessing 25 patients with 48 fractures 10 (40%) had excellent results, 13 (52%) had satisfactory results and 2 (8%) had unsatisfactory functional outcome. Open reduction and internal fixation should be done in fractures of forearm bones in adults. In our study there is not much difference in union rates of nailing or plating. However, plating provides better compression at fracture site and rigid fixation to permit early mobilisation. The majority of patients had excellent functional outcome with plating alone.