[Restriction of movement in the proximal and distal radio-ulnar joints in posttraumatic angulation and torsion of the radius].

Posttraumatic angular and rotatory deformities of radius or ulna or both frequently cause a restriction of supination-pronation. The loss of motion is determined by the direction and the degree of angulation and by location of fracture. The dorsopalmar angulation and radioulnar deviation of the radius in an anatomic forearm specimen are simulated and the motions of the radius during supination-pronation are investigated. Dorsal angulation and radial deviation produce a considerable loss of pronation. However, supination losses are much less affected. The reduction of the interosseous gap is an important morphological reason of this effect. The angle of torsion is measured in left and right intact radii between transversal epiphyseal and diaphyseal axes. The torsion of the distal radial epiphysis varies from 0 to 16 degrees. Left and right radius of a single individual show very small differences in their torsion; therefore a comparison to the intact contralateral bone is indicated.