The One-Bone Forearm: A Review

Abstract

The one-bone forearm (OBF) is a salvage technique that may be used to correct global forearm instability secondary to osseous defects. This study aims to provide an overview of the contemporary literature regarding the OBF. A literature review was conducted electronically across MEDLINE, Embase, and PubMed databases in May 2020. Studies were eligible for inclusion if published in the English language; detailed the use of the OBF procedure to correct forearm instability; and were original data studies reporting qualitative or quantitative outcomes. Thirty-four studies, describing a cohort of 210 patients undergoing 211 OBFs, were documented in the literature. The primary etiology necessitating the OBF was trauma, followed by genetic/congenital disorders and infections. Technically, the OBF was most frequently achieved via an end-to-end osteosynthesis with plate fixation. In total, 85.0% (154/182) of OBF were fused in neutral rotation or varying degrees of pronation. Union was achieved in more than 80.0% (174/211) of OBFs. The OBF is a feasible salvage technique that has been used for a wide spectrum of pathology, providing satisfactory outcomes in most cases.

Modified Technique of Single-Bone Forearm in the Treatment of Deformities

“…The single bone forearm technique has been described, not only for the treatment of hereditary multiple exostoses disease, but also for serious trauma or tumors with massive loss of bone [1][2][3]. The technique generally consists of an osteotomy of the radius as well as the ulna, then fixing the radius to the ulna with or without resection of part of one or both bones of the forearm [3,10].…”

“…The single-bone forearm is a salvage technique for massive loss of bone due to serious trauma, malignant tumors [ 1 ], infections or congenital deformity [ 2 , 3 ]. It is also described to treat the sequelae of hereditary multiple exostoses disease that affects the distal end of the ulna.…”