Selection of fusion position during forearm arthrodesis

The purpose of this study was to determine the optimal position for forearm arthrodesis. We attempted to determine functional difficulties associated with different positions of simulated fusion and whether there was a differ ence between men and women in their preference for fusion position. The for earms of 30 subjects were immobilized in neutral, 45 degrees supination, an d 45 degrees pronation. The subjects performed 2 functional tests in each s plint: the Jebsen hand function test and a subjective evaluation of the dif ficulty of activities of daily living. Each subject was asked to choose a p referred position for forearm fusion. Overall, subjects found the supinated position the most difficult to adapt to; the majority (63.3%) preferred ne utral. Based on the results of our study we recommend forearm fusion in neu tral or slight pronation. A thorough preoperative activity history and func tional assessment may assist in determining the desired forearm arthrodesis position in a given individual. (J Hand Surg 2000;25A:842-848. Copyright ( C) 2000 by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand.).