Madelung's deformity. A follow-up study of 26 cases and a review of the literature.

Madelung's deformity, the history, aetiology, pathogenesis and prognosis, is discussed, on the basis of the literature. The author's material of 26 cases has been followed up. Thirteen of them were treated by resection of the ulna head or shortening of the ulna, with or without wedge osteotomy of the radius. The result was an improvement in pain and a cosmetic improvement, but mobility was unaltered. Spontaneous improvement in the symptoms is common, so that a waiting policy, and observation of the patient until growth ceases, is recommended.