The long-term effects of treatment of the distal radius epiphysiolysis in children

Introduction. This study evaluates the effects of treatment of distal radius epiphysiolysis in children. Material and methods. 20 children were examined, aged 12 to 18. Mean observation period was 13,4 months. The examination consisted of radiography and evaluaton of the limb function in comparison to the uninjured limb. The palmar inclination angle (RI) and radial inclination angle (RT) of the epiphysis were measured on the radiographs. Correct mobility of the injured limb was found in all cases, a slight lowering of the gross strength of the limb in 2 cases. Conclusions. The radiographs revealed an overall tendency to dorsal angulation of the distal radius epiphysis (mean RI was 0,750), and a correct radial inclination angle (mean RT was 21,80); there was 1 case of an excessive palmar angulation of the metaphysis to the diaphysis. The distal radius epiphysiolysis heals without complications in a majority of cases. A small residual dorsal angulation of the epiphysis does not result in restriction in upper limb function.