Radiological Case of the Month

Clinical History.—A 6½ year old girl was in good health until she fell from a swing approximately 61 cm above the ground. She landed on her outstretched right arm with the wrist in hyperextension.

Physical Examination.—Significant physical findings were confined to the right arm. She had severe tenderness and swelling over the dorsal aspect of the radius, at the junction of the distal and middle thirds. Neurological function and circulation were normal. Roentgenograms were obtained (Fig 1 and 2).

Denoument and Discussion 

Acute Plastic Bowing of the Forearm  The roentgenographic findings are characteristic of acute plastic bowing of the ulna accompanying a greenstick fracture of the radius (Fig 1). The fracture was reduced by manipulation and the arm was casted in plaster for immobilization. Two and one-half months following the radial fracture and ulnar deformity, the patient has full ranges of motion at the elbow and wrist and normal forearm