Distal Metaphyseal Ulnar-Shortening Osteotomy: Surgical Technique

Ulnar impaction is a common condition encountered by hand surgeons. Historically, treatment of this condition has been with wafer resection of the distal ulna, by either open or arthroscopic means, or diaphyseal ulnar shortening osteotomy; however, both of these have the potential for prolonged recovery or a need for additional procedures. Wafer procedures, whether done by open or arthroscopic techniques, can result in hemarthrosis, and diaphyseal osteotomies can require hardware removal. Recently, Slade and Gillon described a technique of ulnar shortening in the osteochondral region of the ulnar head, which offers advantages over previously used techniques. The purpose of this manuscript is to describe this technique, as well as pearls and pitfalls associated with the procedure. To more accurately describe the location of the osteotomy, we have changed the name of the procedure from Dr. Slade's original description to distal metaphyseal ulnar-shortening osteotomy.