Madelung's deformity: Surgical correction through the anterior approach

A resurgence of interest in Madelung's deformity has developed recently because of improved operations for correction of the deformity, identification of the genetic loci for the condition in certain syndromal variants, identification of an anterior ligamentous structure tethering the carpus, and preventive treatments in growing children. The process is reviewed in this article and a new surgical technique is presented. The procedure is performed by way of an anterior incision that is more cosmetically appealing. The release of an anterior ligamentous structure described by Vickers is performed simultaneously with a dome shaped osteotomy of the radius. The fragments, once alignment is corrected, are stabilized with temporary pin fixation and a long arm cast until the bone has healed.