Abstract
Bone grafting is the standard treatment for massive bone defects caused by osteomyelitis of the distal radius. Autogenous non-vascularized bone grafts may result in nonunion because of avascular bone. Free vascularized bone grafts ( VBGs ) are often used for forearm reconstruction and require vascular anastomosis during microsurgery. However, this technique is difficult to perform in elderly patients because they often have complex past medical histories and may experience post-operative complications after a lengthy surgery. We report a distal radius reconstruction using a pedicled VBG of the ulna based on the anterior interosseous artery in an 80-year-old man. This technique reduces operation time and stress, and has a lower donor site morbidity than free VBGs. Post-operative radiographs revealed union of the bone graft at 3 months. The range of motion was 60/80 degrees in pronation/supination due to preservation of the radial head. The patient reported no pain, and his disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand ( DASH ) score was 32.5 at the final follow-up. For elderly patients with high-risk complications, this technique is useful as a salvage operation.
