Long-term results of Galeazzi-equivalent injuries in adolescents--open reduction and internal fixation of the ulna.

We diagnosed 10 Galeazzi-equivalent injuries. We report the radiological and clinical results at the end of growth in adolescents, including the results of ulnar lengthening. This study included 10 Galeazzi-equivalent injuries (seven patients requiring open reduction and three requiring closed reduction for ulnar lesions) seen since 2004. The periosteum was entrapped around the fractured physis in five patients and the extensor carpi ulnaris to the periosteum was interposed in two patients. Among the seven patients, ulnar lengthening was performed in only three patients. Ulnar variances at the time of the lengthening were -6, -6, and -5 mm. Gradual lengthening was performed. Radiologic abnormalities, including the ulnar variances, were investigated at the end of growth. In addition, pain scores, the range of wrist motion, and grip strength were evaluated and compared with nonlengthened ulnas. The mean age of the patients at the final follow-up was 19.7 years, and the mean total follow-up period was 6 years. The final ulnar variances were -5, -5, -3, and 0 mm in four patients with nonlengthened ulnas among the seven patients. Three patients with lengthened ulnas showed final neutral variances. In four nonlengthened ulnas, three ulnas bowed to the radial side and two ulnar heads had an inclined and deformed shape. Joint mismatch of the distal radioulnar joint surface was found in one patient with lengthened and one with nonlengthened ulnas. Three patients with nonlengthened ulnas showed decreased range of wrist motions. Comparison of contralateral grip strength indicated a significant difference between patients with or without lengthened ulnas. Long-term follow-up after Galeazzi-equivalent injuries may be essential to check for premature epiphyseal closure, length discrepancies, or joint incongruency. A procedure for a shortened ulna could be needed; however, the appropriate time and degree of lengthening remain to be investigated.