Premature closure of the distal radial physis after fracture of the distal radial metaphysis.

Abstract

Two fractures of the distal radius seemingly with lack of involvement of the distal radial physis are presented. Nevertheless, complete arrest of the adjacent physis occurred, suggesting a Salter-Harris V mechanism of injury to the vulnerable distal radial physis. Ulnar "overgrowth" produced impingement of the carpus and functional complaints sufficient to warrant treatment. In this clinical setting, an ulnar-shortening osteotomy done at skeletal maturity resulted in marked improvement in the range of motion at the radiocarpal joint and corresponding improvement in function for both patients so treated.