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The authors present two rare cases of a paediatric Galeazzi-equivalent fracture. In contrast to Galeazzi's fracture-dislocation in adults, an epiphyseal separation of the distal ulna occurred instead of dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) or both. A precise radiographic analysis of the epiphyseal separation of the distal ulna and its anatomical reduction were keys to obtaining a good result in the treatment of paediatric Galeazzi-equivalent fracture.

Wrist arthrodesis is exceptionally performed in children. The main indication is severe wrist flexion contracture resulting from Volkmann's ischaemia or spasticity. In such cases, a proximal row carpectomy is usually necessary to allow the wrist to be positioned in neutral position. In young children, it is essential to preserve the distal radius growth plate, to prevent physeal closure. In these very particular indications, with high stresses along the stretched palmar soft-tissues, Kirschner wire fixation provides poor stability, and plate fixation is contra-indicated. Radio-metacarpal external fixation is an excellent alternative, preserving the distal radius growth plate and offering sufficient stability. This technique was used in a seven-year-old girl suffering from Volkmann's ischaemic contracture, treated by first carpal bone resection and subsequent arthrodesis with radio-metacarpal external fixation. Bone healing was achieved in three months, with a five years follow-up preservation of the distal radius growth plate.

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Metacarpal tuberculosis is rare even in endemic areas. This is a report of a 12-year-old girl with gradual, painless swelling of the dorsal aspect of the right hand over a 2-year period. She developed a discharging sinus over the mass after a traumatic incident. The radiographs showed a well-defined, expansile osteolytic lesion. Blood test, fine needle aspiration biopsy and smears were not diagnostic. A second histologic examination with phenotypic test was required for diagnosis and to begin appropriate chemotherapy. Establishing the diagnosis was not straightforward, even though we suspected tuberculosis.

Level of Evidence: Level V (Therapeutic)

Background: The transfer of latissimus dorsi (LD) and teres major (TM) have been described for restoration of external rotation (ER) and shoulder abduction in neonatal brachial plexus palsy (NBPP). The aim of this prospective randomised study is to compare the outcomes of LD versus TM transfer in the treatment of internal rotation contracture of the shoulder in children with NBPP.

Methods: The study was conducted from February 2014 to January 2018 and included NBPP patients with internal rotation contracture of the shoulder. Patients were randomised to either LD (Group 1) or TM (Group 2) tendon transfer. Patients were followed up for at least 38 months and assessed for improvements in the arc of shoulder abduction and ER.

Results: The study included 30 patients with 15 patients randomised to each group respectively. Group 1 (n = 15) included 4 boys and 11 girls with a mean age of 2 years and 8 months (range: 1.5–5) and a mean follow-up of 62 months (range: 38–68). Group 2 (n = 15) included 6 boys and 9 girls with a mean age of 2 years and 6 months (range: 1.5–4.8) and a mean follow-up of 58 months (range: 38–68). All patients showed improvement in shoulder abduction and active and passive ER. There were no differences in shoulder abduction (p = 0.467), active ER (p = 0.124) and passive ER (p = 0.756) between both groups.

Conclusions: Both LD and TM tendon transfers improved shoulder function in NBPP patients with internal rotation contracture of the shoulder.

Level of Evidence: Level II (Therapeutic)