Longitudinal Reduction Defect of the Radius

A radial longitudinal reduction defect (RLD), also known as clubhand, is a malposition of the wrist due to underdevelopment (radius hypoplasia) or absence (radius aplasia) of the radius. Chapter 2 describes both this malposition and its effects on the physiology of the child’s body, and mentions syndromal diseases in which a clubhand occurs. After presenting the treatment goals, the treatment concept follows as an interplay between surgical and conservative treatment, supplemented by conservative treatment alone in the most severe form of RLD. The chapter ends with treatment examples depending on the developmental and therapy status.