Plating Radius & Ulna

In adult displaced diaphyseal fractures of both radius and ulna, the gold standard fixation method is

• Intramedullary nailing of both bones

• Dynamic compression plating of both bones

• External fixation

• Cast immobilization for 8 weeks

The main goal of plating both radius and ulna in adults is to

• Prevent compartment syndrome

• Allow early functional use of the hand

• Restore pronation–supination arc

• Promote rapid callus formation

During ORIF of the radius, which approach is most commonly used for midshaft fractures?

• Henry (volar) approach

• Thompson (dorsal) approach

• Boyd approach

• Kocher approach

For ulna shaft plating, which approach is most common?

• Volar

• Dorsal subcutaneous

• Anterolateral

• Medial

In forearm plating, how many cortices should ideally be engaged by screws on each side of the fracture?

• 2 cortices each side

• 4 cortices each side

• Minimum 5 cortices each side

• Any number, as long as stable

Which of the following is a major cause of loss of forearm rotation after plating?

• Plate too short

• Malreduction with altered radial bow

• Excessive screw torque

• Early mobilization

Which nerve is at risk during the Henry approach to the radius?

• Median nerve

• Radial nerve (posterior interosseous branch)

• Ulnar nerve

• Musculocutaneous nerve

Which complication is most associated with plating both bones of the forearm?

• Refracture after plate removal

• Volkmann’s contracture

• Shoulder stiffness

• Heterotopic ossification

In children, plating is less common because:

• Plates are not available in small sizes

• Casting is usually sufficient due to high remodelling potential

• Children cannot tolerate metal implants

• Plating always damages the growth plate

The minimum recommended plate length in forearm diaphyseal fracture fixation is:

• 3 holes per side for 7 holes plate

• 3 holes per side for 6 holes plate

• 4 holes per side for 6 hole

• 2 holes per side for 7 holes plate