A forearm is the portion of the arm situated between the wrist and elbow and is made of two bones that are relatively parallel to each other, namely radius and ulna.
Forearm fracture refers to the condition in which the bones in the forearm, i.e., the radius and ulna are either cracked or broken. The break or crack could be located anywhere across the forearm – near the wrist, anywhere in the middle or towards the end of the bones near the elbow.
The orthopaedic doctor examines the patient’s X-Ray, CT or the MRI along with the physical condition, to check for normalcy or anomalies in the vitals. Once the patient is considered fit for the surgery, the surgeon explains the process to the patient and his relatives regarding the expected results of the surgery.
The patient is positioned in the supine position on the table, and is examined from the axilla to the hand. Mostly, a lateral approach is used.
With the help of pointed Reduction Forceps, reduction and temporary fixation of fragments is done using K-wires.
Depending on the condition of the patient, the surgeon prescribes suitable antibiotics prior to the surgery to ensure complete healing. This also minimizes the occurrences of post-operative infections.
A capsular incision is made in such a way that the radial nerve is protected. It is important to locate the Hotchkiss Safe Zone, which is free from the impingement between ulna and radius.
Post the temporary fixation of the fracture, the plate is applied using a preliminary cortex screw. Since the plates are pre-contoured, bending of the plates may not be required. If, however, it is absolutely necessary to bend the plate, the same may be done using specified Bending Pliers. After this, the suitable screws are inserted manually or using a drilling tool, across all the positions required.