Page 100 - Orthopedic Casting Manual

2.3.1 Fracture Type(s) cont ...

Midshaft Radius and Ulna Fractures
✓ Clinically Relevant Anatomy: The radius and ulna for m the forear m's osseous

framewor k and are connected by the interosseous membrane, which
transfers force and maintains alignment.
✓ Epidemiological/Etiology/Mechanism of Injur y: Most common in pediatric and

adolescent populations but can occur in adul ts; High-energy trauma such as
falls, direct blows, or spor ts-related injuries.
✓ Clinical Characteristics/Presentation: Forear m defor mit y, swelling, and

ecchymosis; Pain and tender ness along the radius and ulna shafts; Reduced
pronation and supination.
✓ Fracture Diagnosis Process: Imaging: AP and lateral forear m radiographs;

✓ Clinical Tests: Evaluation of neurovascular function due to proximit y to the

radial and ulnar ner ves.
✓ Differential Diagnosis/Associated Injuries: Isolated radius or ulna fractures;

Compar tment syndrome; Associated elbow or wrist fractures.
✓ Treatment/Management Considerations: Nondisplaced fractures: Long ar m

cast with neutral forear m position; Displaced fractures: Surgical fixation is
usually required.