General considerations
Simple isolated transverse or short oblique (< 30°) fractures of the ulna are typically treated by open compression plating and functional aftertreatment.
Intramedullary nailing of forearm fractures is currently limited to pediatric fractures and severe multifragmentary injuries of one or both forearm bones in the presence of devastating soft-tissue damage. Pediatric fractures are not included in this module of AO Surgery Reference. Discussion of nailing in adult forearm shaft fractures is confined to multifragmentary fractures of both bones in adult AO Surgery Reference.
| Nonoperative treatment | ||
| Indication summary | Skill | Equipment |
|---|---|---|
| Minimally displaced fractures |  |
 |
Minimally displaced fractures may be treated nonoperatively, usually with a long-arm cast, followed by a brace.
| External fixation | ||
| Indication summary | Skill | Equipment |
|---|---|---|
| A means of temporary fixation for severely open fractures |  |
 |
External fixation can be indicated in severely open fractures as a means of temporary fixation (with a view to later conversion to internal fixation).
| ORIF - Compression plating | ||
| Indication summary | Skill | Equipment |
|---|---|---|
| Treatment of choice | |
|
The treatment of choice for displaced forearm shaft fractures is ORIF with absolute stability. This is achieved using a compression plate.
| *Skill | |
|---|---|
|
Basic surgical experience, no specialized skills |
|
Some specialized surgical experience |
 |
Highly experienced and skilled surgeon |
| *Equipment | |
|---|---|
|
Basic equipment only |
|
Simple surgical and imaging resources |
 |
Full specialized surgical and imaging resources |