The ulnar shaft is the relatively straight medial bone of the forearm, subcutaneous along its posterior (dorsal) border throughout its length. Its anterior surface gives origin to flexor digitorum profundus, and its posterior surface to extensor carpi ulnaris, extensor digitorum, and extensor indicis. The ulna is the fixed axis around which the radius rotates during pronation and supination.
| Articulations |
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|---|---|
| Landmarks |
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| Ossification | Primary centre present from the second fetal month; distal epiphysis fuses at 16-19 years. |
The subcutaneous ulnar border makes it vulnerable to direct trauma (nightstick fracture) and easily palpable throughout. Isolated ulnar shaft fractures are treated non-operatively unless displaced more than 50% or angulated more than 10 degrees. Monteggia fracture combines an ulnar shaft fracture with radial head dislocation and requires surgical fixation.
An isolated ulnar shaft fracture from a direct blow when the forearm is raised in defence.
A proximal ulnar shaft fracture with radial head dislocation, which is easily missed.
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