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Learn the Ulnar shortening osteotomy using the RECOS locking plate surgical technique with step by step instructions on OrthOracle. Our e-learning platform contains high resolution images and a certified CME of the Ulnar shortening osteotomy using the RECOS locking plate surgical procedure.

An ulnar shortening osteotomy is a common procedure in wrist surgery and was originally described by Milch in 1941 for the treatment of an ulnar positive variance following a distal radius malunion. Painless load transmission through the wrist is dependent upon the alignment of the radius with the ulna. Studies have shown that a length alteration in the ulna of 2.5mm has dramatic implication on load transmission across the wrist.

Ulnar impaction syndrome is a process affecting the ulnocarpal joint with some evidence that overloading through the distal ulna is the cause. Ulnar positive variance is known to be a risk factor as it increases loads through the ulnocarpal joint.

Ulnar impaction syndrome can be congenital, developmental or degenerative, or may occur following trauma. Post traumatic impaction  commonly results from a distal radius fracture or less commonly after premature radial epiphyseal closure.

Although any amount of ulnar shortening may rebalance and improve wrist loading, between 2-3 mm is recommended by most authors. This should result in an 80% reduction in load transmission through the ulno-carpal articulation.

Currently ulnar shortening is performed for a variety of indications and although these may demand different degrees of shortening, the same techniques and instruments may be used to ensure a high degree of precision and control.

Recent years have seen a number of manufacturers introduce specialised instrumentation and customised plates.  In this section I describe one technique of ulnar shortening using the RECOS (KLS Martin Group, Germany) locking reconstruction system for ulnar shortening.

This is a pre-contoured titanium plate with drill sleeves and colour coded screws.

An adjustable jig allows the surgeon to perform a predetermined degree of shortening whilst two sliding holes allow compression across the osteotomy followed by lag screw placement and rigid fixation.

The RECOS plate requires  a very limited number of instruments and it is consequently one of the simpler procedures to follow, in comparison to a number of alternative implants.

 

 

 

Author: Tahseen Chaudhry, (FRCS Tr & Orth) Consultant Hand Surgeon

Institution: Birmingham Hand Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK

Clinicians should seek clarification on whether any implant demonstrated is licensed for use in their own country.

In the USA contact: fda.gov
In the UK contact: gov.uk
In the EU contact: ema.europa.eu