© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
Multiple osteotomies of the radius and ulna involve surgical procedures aimed at correcting deformities or realigning the bones in the forearm. An osteotomy is a surgical operation in which a bone is cut to facilitate realignment. The specific type of osteotomy performed—such as transverse, wedge, sliding, right or left angle, V-osteotomy, or Z-osteotomy—depends on the nature and location of the deformity being addressed. Prior to the surgery, the physician utilizes radiographic studies to determine the precise locations for the bone cuts, ensuring that the surgical approach is tailored to achieve optimal alignment and correction. The procedure typically begins with a longitudinal incision over the forearm, allowing access to the radius and ulna. Once the soft tissues are carefully dissected, the radius is exposed, and the periosteum, which is the connective tissue surrounding the bone, is elevated. The surgeon then employs tools such as a drill, saw, or osteotome to make the necessary cuts in the bone according to the pre-determined configuration. After the osteotomies are performed, an appropriately sized intramedullary rod is selected to provide internal stabilization. This rod is inserted into the intramedullary canal of the radius and/or ulna, which is drilled or reamed to accommodate the rod. If a cannulated rod is utilized, a guidewire is first placed into the canal to assist in positioning the rod accurately. The final step involves securing the rod in place using screws, pins, or other fixation devices, ensuring that the bones are anatomically aligned at each osteotomy site. This comprehensive approach allows for effective correction of the deformities in both the radius and ulna.
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