Abstract

The outcome of a metaphyseal ulnar shortening osteotomy, reported by Sennwald as an alternative option for ulnar abutment syndrome, was evaluated with regard to the functional results, pain relief and incidence of complications. Methods : We conducted a review of 12 patients ; measured parameters were DASH score, PRWE, VAS for pain, grip force and wrist motion. Results : Only disability improved significantly with a DASH score of 42 (p = 0.03). The function and pain assessment scores did not improve in 3 patients. We found no correlation between change in functional scores and other measured variables. Six patients were reoperated for prominent screw heads or newonset distal radioulnar joint osteoarthritis. Conclusion : All osteomies healed fast and uneventfully and disability improved in most patients but 25% did not improve and 50% were re-operated. Further investigation is needed to evaluate the value of the metaphyseal osteotomy as an alternative treatment for ulnar abutment syndrome.