RESUMO
The flexor carpi radialis brevis (FCRB) muscle, considered a rare anomaly, is not well known among orthopedic surgeons. The indications for volar locking plates to treat distal radius fractures have recently expanded, and, as a result, encounters with the FCRB are becoming more common. However, few studies have described how to retract an FCRB. Here, we describe seven of 264 patients with FCRB who underwent surgery for distal radius fractures. In one case, the retracted FCRB interfered with the internal fixation. The presented cases demonstrate that the radial retraction of an FCRB with a large muscle belly enables favorable exposure of the distal radius.
RESUMO
Avulsion fractures of the calcaneal tuberosity, although relatively uncommon, occur more frequently in patients with osteoporosis and in the elderly. The results of closed manipulation are poor in these fractures, usually requiring open reduction and internal fixation. However, it is difficult to fix the bone fragment rigidly, because the avulsed bone fragment is small and thin, and the bone quality of the calcaneal body in the elderly is poor. Hence, it is necessary to limit prolonged weight-bearing after the operation. We performed an innovative surgical procedure of suture fixation to the anchor screw in four cases, following which earlier postoperative rehabilitation with full weight-bearing walking and range of motion exercises was possible, and bony union was achieved without repeated displacement of the fragment in all patients. We believe this technique would prove useful in surgical management of calcaneal tuberosity avulsion fractures.