Hydroxyapatite Coated Plate in the Surgical Treatment of the Forearm Non Union with Bone Loss

Abstract

From 1974 to 1990 23 forearm nonunions with bone loss were operated on at the third Department of Rizzoli Orthopaedic Institute. Length of bone loss ranged from 0.5 to 8 centimeters. The forearm nonunions were operated on of internal fixation with metallic plate; in 8 patients hydroxyapatite (HA) coated plates were implanted. A cortical-cancellous bone graft was interposed between the nonunion segments. A cortical bone graft was implanted opposite to the plate. Union was achieved in 21 cases. Functional results were evaluated according to the prono-supination range of motion. We had 10 excellent results, 5 good, 6 fair and 2 poor. The restoration of the shape and length of the forearm long bones is considered indispensable to obtain good functional results. The HA coated plate advantages could be osteoconductive property, bone direct apposition and bonding, no fibrous tissue formation near the plate, not necessary removal.