The Sequelae of Osteomyelitis of the Proximal Ulna Occurring in Early Childhood

Abstract

Three patients presented with upper limb problems caused by the loss of the proximal ulnar shaft due to osteomyelitis which occurred in early childhood. The three patients had several features in common: instability of the elbow, dislocation of the radial head and shortness and bowing of the forearm, but hand and wrist function were largely unaffected. One patient had evidence of impaired function of the posterior interosseous nerve, presumably a traction injury. The treatment of these problems is discussed. In one patient, a child who had a functioning ulno-humeral joint, successful reconstruction of the ulna using a vascularised fibular graft was possible.