Entrapment of the flexor digitorum profundus following paediatric forearm fractures.

The complications of closed and open reduction of paediatric both-bone forearm fractures have been well established. These include malunion, refracture, neurovascular insult, compartment syndrome, infection, and soft tissue/nerve entrapment. We describe two cases of small and ring finger flexion contractures as a complication of closed and operative treatment of healed paediatric both-bone forearm fractures. In both instances, tethering of the flexor digitorum profundus and fibrotic scar tissue interposed at the ulna fracture site was noted at the time of exploration. Evidence of a characteristic fracture pattern at the time of injury, persistent ulnar cortical defect after fracture healing, and delayed identification of the contractures following cast removal are key features in identifying and treating these complications.