Madelung's deformity

Madelung's deformity was first described by Madelung in 1878. It is a growth disturbance of the ulnar and volar aspect of the distal radial physis. There are both inheritable and sporadic forms. It produces a 'dinner fork' derformity of the distal radius and wrist. Typically, it affects young girls bilaterally. Treatment is usually non-operative but surgery is occasionally indicated for pain or impingement.