18. Treatment of forearm factures in adults

Question 1

When can forearm fractures be treated conservatively?

Answer 1

nondisplaced fracture of both bones of the forearm

Question 2

What needs to be done if a person with a forearm fracture is being treated conservatively?

Answer 2

Follow up X-rays each weeks for 4 weeks to ensure that there is no displacement

Question 3

What is the surgical therapy of a forearm fracture?

Answer 3

Open reduction and internal fixation:
* When both bones of the forearm are fractured, they are both exposed and temporarily reduced before fixation of either bone is completed.
* plate must be accurately centered over the reduced fracture

Intramedullary nailing:
* The entry point for intramedullary nailing of the ulna is from above (proximal ulna).
* The radial portal is usually from below (radial styloid process).