The forearm doesn't just support the hand: it rotates it. That is why, in radius and ulna fractures, alignment matters as much as bone healing.
A forearm that heals in an incorrect position can lead to deformity or functional limitation. In children, many deformities correct spontaneously with growth, while others require specific treatment.
Closed reduction and an above-elbow cast. Works well for mildly displaced or stable fractures and in young children with high remodelling potential. Requires close X-ray follow-up to catch any re-displacement.
Needed when alignment is unsatisfactory, when the fracture is unstable, or when age no longer allows reliance on remodelling. The most common techniques are radius/ulna ESIN or, in selected cases, plate and screws.
One or two elastic nails are inserted inside the bone through small skin incisions. This is a minimally invasive stabilisation that preserves the surrounding tissues without opening the fracture site.
Both-bone forearm fractures in school-age children and adolescents, unstable or poorly reducible fractures.
Both bones are often stabilised together. The nails are removed in a planned second operation once healing is complete.
Percutaneous stabilisation for distal radius fractures close to the wrist.
When the site is very distal and ESIN is not the most suitable option.
More rigid fixation reserved for selected cases, typically adolescents near skeletal maturity or complex fractures.
Failure or non-indication of ESIN, multifragmentary fractures, some revisions.
An ulnar fracture can be associated with malalignment of the radial head at the elbow (Monteggia lesion). Recognising it on time changes the prognosis: a missed Monteggia is a classic problem that shows up later as elbow dysfunction.
Bring the ER report and the X-rays. A focused paediatric orthopaedic visit can clarify indication, timing and alternatives.
Book a visitContent for general informational purposes only. It does not replace a medical evaluation.