A 28-year-old motorcyclist sustains a Grade IIIB open both-bones forearm fracture. After debridement and wound management, the preferred definitive fixation is:

• A Above-elbow plaster cast with frequent follow-up
• B Intramedullary nailing of both bones
• C External fixation of both bones as definitive treatment
• D Dynamic compression plating of both radius and ulna ✓

Explanation

Both-bones forearm fractures in adults require rigid fixation to restore the precise radial bow and interosseous space essential for pronation/supination; even 5–10 degrees of malrotation significantly restricts forearm rotation. Open plating with dynamic compression plates (DCPs) — even in grade IIIB open fractures after thorough debridement — remains the gold standard because it provides the anatomical reduction and rigid fixation needed. IM nailing of both forearm bones does not restore radial bow adequately and is not standard. External fixation alone as definitive treatment leads to poor functional outcomes.

Reference: Maheshwari Essential Orthopaedics, 6th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.