title: Forearm reconstruction after loss of radius: case report.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Osteomyelitis of the radius resulting in the radial clubhand is a very rare condition and few studies have been published about its prognosis and treatment.
  
  
  METHODS
  This is a case report of hematogenous osteomyelitis of the radius with a complete loss of the radius leaving only the distal radial metaphysis to carry the carpus. In order to achieve best functional results, four-step operative protocol was performed for reconstruction; lengthening of the forearm by external fixator, radioulnar transposition to create a one-bone forearm, plate removal and transposition of brachioradialis to the extensor pollicis longus as well as proximal row carpectomy. After nine years of the last operation, the function of the elbow and hands is good with acceptable cosmetic result. The forearm is 5 cm shorter and there has been a persistent mild limitation of palmar flexion.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Creation of the one-bone forearm normalizes the elbow and wrist function, corrects forearm malalignment, and improves forearm growth potential.
authors.affiliation: Clinic for Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia. rasa.manojlovic@gmail.com
authors.forename: Radovan
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Manojlović
authors.forename: Goran
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Tulić
authors.forename: Marko
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Kadija
authors.forename: Cedomir
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Vucetić
authors.forename: Dejan
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Tabaković
authors.forename: Marko
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Bumbasirević
mesh_terms: D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D005542:Forearm / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D019637:Orthopedic Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D010019:Osteomyelitis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D011859:Radiography; D011884:Radius / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods*