Refracture of the Forearm Bones at the Same Site Three Months after Implant Removal: A Case Report

Abstract

Refracture at the same site after implant removal is a rare complication, as fractures generally occur close to the plate end due to stress concentration. The reported case involves a patient with refractures of forearm bones at the previous site three months after implant removal. A 48-year-old, right-handed man complained of pain and swelling in his right hand after falling on a wet floor. He had a history of a similar injury three years earlier and was treated with plate osteosynthesis. The plates were removed three months before the present trauma. Radiographs revealed fractures of the distal one-third radius and distal one-fourth of the ulna with evidence of previous screw holes. He has been treated with a Low-contact Dynamic Compression Plate (LCDCP) and remains under follow-up. Refracture three months after implant removal at the site of the previous fracture site in both bones is a very rare occurrence and the present case report highlighted the importance of making a proper decision regarding union, when considering implant removal and post-implant removal care.

Keywords

• fracture
• plate osteosynthesis
• stress concentration
• radius