A Variant of Madelung Deformity: Management of the Distal Ulna Within the Carpal Canal.

Abstract

Madelung deformity is a rare disease that affects the normal growth of the distal radius and occurs in 1.7% of all pediatric congenital hand deformities. It is characterized by progressive deformity and shortening of the radius at the distal radial physis owing to anomalous tethering of the ulnar-volar growth plate. The distal ulna overgrows the radius and usually displaces dorsally. As growth continues, the carpals assume a wedge shape. Deformity, pain, and functional limitations are the usual presenting problems. We report the case of a 9-year-old girl with bilateral Madelung deformity and pain, in whom initial radiographs of the right wrist showed that the right ulna was displaced volarly and in the carpal canal.