Name of the Procedure:

Repair of defect with autograft of the radius or ulna

Summary

Repair of a defect with autograft involving the radius or ulna is a surgical procedure where healthy bone tissue from another part of the patient's body (autograft) is used to repair a damaged or missing section of the radius or ulna, the two long bones in the forearm.

Purpose

The medical condition or problem it addresses:

• It addresses defects or fractures in the radius or ulna that cannot heal properly on their own.

The goals or expected outcomes of the procedure:

• To restore the structural integrity and function of the forearm.
• To enhance bone healing and repair.
• To alleviate pain and improve the range of motion.

Indications

Specific symptoms or conditions that warrant the procedure:

• Non-healing fractures.
• Bone defects following trauma or surgical resection.
• Congenital bone abnormalities.
• Bone infections that necessitate removal of a segment.

Patient criteria or factors that make the procedure appropriate:

• Patients with adequate donor site bone quality.
• Individuals who are healthy enough to undergo surgery.
• Patients with specific bone conditions where alternative treatments have failed.

Preparation

Pre-procedure instructions for the patient:

• Fasting for 8-12 hours prior to surgery.
• Adjustments or discontinuation of certain medications as advised by the doctor.

Any diagnostic tests or assessments required beforehand:

• X-rays, CT scans, or MRI to assess the defect.
• Blood tests to ensure the patient is fit for surgery.

Procedure Description

• The patient is brought into the surgical suite and placed under general anesthesia.
• The surgeon makes an incision over the defect site and another over the donor site.
• Healthy bone tissue is harvested from the donor site (often the pelvis).
• The harvested bone is shaped and secured to the defect using plates, screws, or other fixation devices.
• Both the defect and donor sites are closed with sutures or staples.

Tools, equipment, or technology used:

• Surgical instruments for cutting and shaping bone.
• Fixation devices such as plates and screws.
• Imaging guidance may be used to ensure proper placement.

Anesthesia or sedation details:

• General anesthesia is typically used during the procedure.

Duration

• The procedure typically takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity.

Setting

• The procedure is performed in a hospital operating room or a specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon.
• Anesthesiologist.
• Surgical nurses and technicians.
• Scrub nurse.
• Anesthesia technician.

Risks and Complications

Common and rare risks associated with the procedure:

• Infection at the surgical site.
• Bone graft rejection or failure to integrate.
• Bleeding and blood clots.
• Nerve damage.
• Pain and stiffness in the affected limb.

Possible complications and their management:

• Continued monitoring and follow-up appointments.
• Antibiotics for infections.
• Physical therapy to restore motion and strength.

Benefits

Expected benefits and how soon they might be realized:

• Improved bone strength and structural integrity.
• Relief from pain and enhanced functionality of the affected limb.
• Benefits often realized within months following proper rehabilitation.

Recovery

Post-procedure care and instructions:

• Keep the surgical sites clean and dry.
• Follow prescribed pain management.
• Avoid strenuous activities for a specified period.
• Attend follow-up appointments for monitoring.

Expected recovery time and any restrictions or follow-up appointments:

• Initial healing takes around 6 to 12 weeks.
• Full recovery can take up to 6 months, requiring physical therapy and regular follow-up.

Alternatives

Other treatment options available:

• Bone graft substitutes (synthetic or donor bone).
• Bone-stimulating medications or devices.
• Non-surgical management with braces or casts.

Pros and cons of alternatives compared to the described procedure:

• Autografts have a higher success rate but involve additional surgical sites.
• Bone substitutes avoid donor site morbidity but may not integrate as well.

Patient Experience

What the patient might feel or experience during and after the procedure:

• During the procedure: The patient will be under general anesthesia and will not feel anything.
• After the procedure: Pain and swelling at the surgical sites, managed with medications.

Pain management and comfort measures:

• Prescribed pain medications.
• Ice packs to reduce swelling.
• Gradual physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.