Management of malunions of the distal radius.

Abstract

Despite encouraging results from small case series, correction of distal radius malunion remains a challenging procedure with uncertain outcomes. The most appropriate treatment for a distal radius malunion is prevention. If a symptomatic malunion is discovered, correction should be undertaken as early as possible. It is recommended that action be taken within six months of the primary injury to decrease the negative impact of soft-tissue contracture on the eventual reconstruction. Although some patients complain about residual problems after malunion surgery, corrective surgery has been shown to improve both radiographic and functional outcomes, and may prevent future secondary problems.