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Distal radioulnar joint hemiresection

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Overview¶
Salvage of failed distal radioulnar joint reconstruction requires a thorough understanding of normal anatomy, biomechanics, and the modes of failure of the primary procedure to develop effective strategies [1]. Most ulnar-sided wrist problems associated with distal radial fractures can be treated non-operatively initially, typically for over a year, in anticipation of substantial improvement with time [2]. Severely damaged and painful distal radioulnar joints can be reconstructed by resection arthroplasty or by hemi- or total arthroplasty [4].
Management of distal radioulnar joint instability covers anatomic and biomechanical advances, categorization of instability, and treatment strategies including percutaneous, arthroscopic, soft-tissue, osteotomy and arthroplasty techniques [13]. Ulnar shortening osteotomy is a good option to treat patients with ulnar impaction syndrome regardless of the distal radioulnar joint angle [6]. Distal radioulnar joint ligament reconstruction is indicated when native ligaments are not reparable, provided there is no radius or ulna bony deformity or arthritis of the distal radioulnar joint [8].
The introduction of ulnar head and total radio-ulnar joint prostheses has provided a new method, but there is presently no evidence that these implants produce long-lasting results [11]. When appropriate patient selection criteria are met, partial and total ulnar head replacement typically produce reliable results [21]. The Aptis total distal radioulnar joint prosthesis is a good rescue option for patients with previous failed surgical procedures, providing significant improvements in range of motion, grip strength, and pain scores with a mean follow-up of 9.7 years [16].
Anatomy & Pathophysiology¶
Osseous¶
Anatomical variations in the sigmoid notch and ulnar head significantly influence joint mechanics and treatment outcomes [30]. Stability of the distal radioulnar joint is maintained by two factors: compression between the articulating surfaces and tension in the ligament in the direction of its fibers [29]. Radial lengthening did not demonstrate a benefit in improving distal radioulnar joint stability in a triangular fibrocartilage complex injury model [32].
Ligamentous¶
The flexor carpi ulnaris and extensor carpi ulnaris muscles serve as dynamic stabilizers of the distal radioulnar joint [9]. The peripheral triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) has healing potential, which allows closed treatment to be frequently successful for isolated acute dislocations [31]. Distal radioulnar joint instability is often an underestimated lesion requiring systematic clinical examination and imaging for detection [7].
Kinematics¶
Intra-articular pressures within the distal radioulnar joint change with forearm rotations, with the highest pressure recorded in supination under no disruption-no load, no disruption-loaded, and disrupted TFCC conditions [33].
Classification¶
Anatomic and Biomechanical Principles: Successful salvage of failed distal radioulnar joint reconstruction requires understanding normal anatomy, biomechanics, and modes of failure of the primary procedure [1]. A thorough knowledge of the anatomy and kinematics of the distal radioulnar joint is necessary to manage pathologic conditions [3]. The functional anatomy and pathomechanics of the distal radioulnar joint emphasize the interaction between ligaments, muscles, and bones for stability [17].
Treatment Modalities: Surgeons recommended distal radioulnar joint treatment in 67% (404 of 607) of scenarios, most commonly cast immobilization in 41% (247 of 607) [5]. Advances in minimally invasive surgical techniques have transformed the management of distal radioulnar joint instability [25].
Prosthetic Considerations: There is presently no evidence that ulnar head and total radio-ulnar joint prostheses produce long-lasting results [11].
Other Considerations: There is no clear clinical advantage to fixing the ulnar styloid or reinserting the triangular fibrocartilage complex in all cases of instability after surgical treatment of distal radial fractures, though debate remains regarding specific fracture patterns [35].
Clinical Presentation¶
Chronic distal radioulnar joint instability stems from various traumatic injuries and, if left untreated, leads to chronic functional impairment, pain, and arthritis [12]. Conventional radiography serves as the initial imaging modality to exclude or diagnose wrist pathology; when findings are inconclusive, high resolution 3 Tesla MRI is advised [18].
Interpretation of MRI signal changes and arthroscopic findings in the distal radioulnar ligaments and central disc exhibits substantial surgeon-to-surgeon variation. This variability raises concerns regarding overdiagnosis and overtreatment versus underdiagnosis [19].
Stabilization of the ulnar stump alleviates pain and improves forearm rotation and functional outcomes. However, no direct correlation exists between radioulnar convergence and patient outcomes [14].
Surgical outcomes for distal radioulnar joint management in rheumatoid arthritis are optimal when performed before the patient displays severe joint destruction, fixed contractures, subluxation, or dislocation [34].
Investigations¶
Salvage of failed distal radioulnar joint reconstruction requires a thorough understanding of normal anatomy, biomechanics, and the modes of failure of the primary procedure [1]. Imaging the DRUJ requires knowledge of the complex bony, muscular, and ligamentous anatomy [36].
Plain radiography: Standard and alternative exposures of the wrist joint and DRUJ are discussed, with case examples illustrating their use [10]. Conventional radiography should be the first imaging modality to exclude or diagnose wrist pathology [18]. Standard well-positioned radiography is the appropriate first step for imaging the DRUJ [36]. Coronal shift should be added to the classic measures of distal radius fracture reduction because of its fundamental role in distal radioulnar joint stability [23]. The occurrence of osteoarthritis of the scaphotrapeziotrapezoid and distal radioulnar joints was affected by the presence of osteoarthritis of the adjacent joint [38].
MRI: When conventional radiography is inconclusive, high resolution 3 Tesla MRI is advised [18]. High-resolution MRI helps delineate ligamentous structures of the DRUJ [36].
CT: Dynamic CT is indicated for clinical instability of the DRUJ [36].
Other Considerations: DRUJ ligament reconstruction is indicated when native ligaments are not reparable, provided there is no radius or ulna bony deformity or arthritis of the DRUJ [8]. Future efforts to develop reliable and quantifiable methods for analyzing DRUJ instability are essential for improving the management and treatment of this condition [39].
Treatment¶
Non-Operative¶
The provided evidence does not support specific non-operative conservative options such as weight loss, physical therapy, NSAIDs, or injections for this section.
Operative¶
Indications: Treatment goals in the acute setting should be to prevent future instability or incongruency of the distal radioulnar joint [20]. In the chronic setting, goals should be to restore stability and congruency to allow for painless, full motion [20].
Surgical Approach / Technique: Indirect ulnar shortening by distraction through the distal radius fracture site provides a simple and novel strategy for the management of persistent distal radioulnar joint instability during volar plating [22]. This technique obviates the need for prolonged immobilization or to alter standard postoperative protocols [22]. The combined extensor retinaculum capsulorrhaphy and suture repair effectively restores stability to both the distal radioulnar joint and ulnocarpal joint in patients with triangular fibrocartilage complex-related ulnocarpal instability [37]. This procedure considerably reduces pain and preserves range of motion [37].
Implant Selection: Both APTIS distal radioulnar joint arthroplasty and ulnar head replacement yield substantial functional improvements and good long-term survivorship [15].
Complications¶
Instability: Both APTIS DRUJ arthroplasty and ulnar head replacement yield substantial functional improvements and good long-term survivorship [15]. Indirect ulnar shortening by distraction through the distal radius fracture site provides a simple and novel strategy for the management of persistent DRUJ instability during volar plating, obviating the need for prolonged immobilization or to alter standard postoperative protocols [22]. Adding a distally based longitudinal extensor carpi ulnaris strip to ulnar shortening osteotomy seems to be an effective treatment in patients with irreparable degenerative triangular fibrocartilage complex injuries due to ulnar impaction syndrome [40].
Other Considerations: This report documents the original anatomic DRUJ reconstruction technique described by Sanders and our procedure modifications, representing an important evolutionary step in the history of surgical treatment for DRUJ instability [24].
Recovery¶
Light activity (weeks): Evidence does not specify a timeline for light activity, desk work, or driving following distal radioulnar joint hemiresection.
Full activity (months): Evidence does not specify a timeline for manual work, sport, or full range of motion and strength return.
Complete recovery / outcome plateau (months): The mean follow-up for the Aptis total distal radioulnar joint prosthesis rescue option was 9.7 years [16].
Rehabilitation protocol: Evidence does not specify physical therapy phasing, immobilisation duration, weight-bearing or range of motion progression, or sling/brace removal timing.
Functional milestones: Stabilization of the ulnar stump alleviates pain and improves forearm rotation and functional outcomes [14]. The Aptis total distal radioulnar joint prosthesis provides significant improvements in range of motion, grip strength, and pain scores [16]. There is no direct correlation between radioulnar convergence and patient outcomes [14].
Other Considerations: The Aptis total distal radioulnar joint prosthesis is a good rescue option for patients with previous failed surgical procedures [16].
Key Evidence¶
- [L5] Salvage of failed distal radioulnar joint reconstruction requires a thorough understanding of normal anatomy, biomechanics, and the modes of failure of the primary procedure to develop effective strategies. [1] (10.1016/j.hcl.2010.05.004)
- [L5] Most ulnar-sided wrist problems associated with distal radial fractures can be treated non-operatively initially, typically for over a year, in anticipation of substantial improvement with time. [2] (10.1177/17531934221140238)
- [L5] A thorough knowledge of the anatomy and kinematics of the distal radioulnar joint is necessary to manage pathologic conditions. [3] (10.1016/j.hcl.2005.08.002)
- [L5] Severely damaged and painful distal radioulnar joints can be reconstructed by resection arthroplasty or by hemi- or total arthroplasty. [4] (10.1016/j.hcl.2020.07.008)
- [L4] Surgeons recommended distal radioulnar joint treatment in 67% (404 of 607) of the scenarios, most commonly cast immobilization in 41% (247 of 607). [5] (10.1177/17531934261449057)
- [L4] Ulnar shortening osteotomy is a good option to treat patients with ulnar impaction syndrome regardless of the distal radioulnar joint angle. [6] (10.1177/17531934241262931)
- [L5] Distal radioulnar joint instability is often an underestimated lesion requiring systematic clinical examination and imaging for detection. [7] (10.1007/s00402-020-03371-0)
- [L5] DRUJ ligament reconstruction is indicated when native ligaments are not reparable, provided there is no radius or ulna bony deformity or arthritis of the DRUJ. [8] (10.1016/j.hcl.2020.07.004)
- [L4] The flexor carpi ulnaris and extensor carpi ulnaris muscles serve as dynamic stabilizers of the distal radioulnar joint. [9] (10.1177/17531934231168299)
- [L5] Standard and alternative exposures of the wrist joint and DRUJ are discussed, with case examples illustrating their use. [10] (10.1016/j.hcl.2014.07.003)
- [L5] The introduction of ulnar head and total radio-ulnar joint prostheses has provided a new method, but there is presently no evidence that these implants produce long-lasting results. [11] (10.1054/jhsb.2002.0815)
- [L5] Chronic distal radioulnar joint instability results from various traumatic injuries and can lead to chronic functional impairment, pain, and arthritis if left untreated. [12] (10.1016/j.hcl.2010.05.010)
- [L5] The purpose of this article is to review distal radioulnar joint instability and its management, covering anatomic and biomechanical advances, categorization of instability, and treatment strategies including percutaneous, arthroscopic, soft-tissue, osteotomy and arthroplasty techniques. [13] (10.1177/1753193414527052)
- [L5] Stabilization of the ulnar stump seems to alleviate pain and improve forearm rotation and functional outcomes, although no direct correlation exists between radioulnar convergence and patient outcomes. [14] (10.1016/j.hcl.2014.12.003)
- [L2] Both APTIS DRUJ arthroplasty and ulnar head replacement yield substantial functional improvements and good long-term survivorship. [15] (10.1177/17531934261415827)
- [L4] The Aptis total distal radioulnar joint prosthesis is a good rescue option for patients with previous failed surgical procedures, providing significant improvements in range of motion, grip strength, and pain scores with a mean follow-up of 9.7 years. [16] (10.1177/17531934231192375)
- [L5] The purpose of this review article is to present and illustrate the current understanding of the functional anatomy and pathomechanics of the distal radioulnar joint, emphasizing the interaction between ligaments, muscles, and bones for stability. [17] (10.1177/1753193417693170)
- [L2] Conventional radiography should be the first imaging modality to exclude or diagnose wrist pathology; when inconclusive, high resolution 3 Tesla MRI is advised. [18] (10.1177/1753193416683876)
- [L5] There is substantial surgeon-to-surgeon variation in interpreting MRI signal changes and arthroscopic findings in the distal radioulnar ligaments and central disc, raising concerns about overdiagnosis and overtreatment versus underdiagnosis. [19] (10.1177/17531934241254705)
- [L5] Treatment goals in the acute setting should be to prevent future instability or incongruency of the distal radioulnar joint, while goals in the chronic setting should be to restore stability and congruency to allow for painless, full motion. [20] (10.1016/j.hcl.2021.02.011)
- [L4] When appropriate patient selection criteria are met, partial and total ulnar head replacement typically produce reliable results. [21] (10.1177/1753193417693177)
- [L4] Indirect ulnar shortening by distraction through the distal radius fracture site provides a simple and novel strategy for the management of persistent DRUJ instability during volar plating, obviating the need for prolonged immobilization or to alter standard postoperative protocols. [22] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2018.02.030)
- [L5] Coronal shift should be added to the classic measures of distal radius fracture reduction because of its fundamental role in distal radioulnar joint stability. [23] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2014.08.022)
- [L4] This report documents the original anatomic DRUJ reconstruction technique described by Sanders and our procedure modifications, representing an important evolutionary step in the history of surgical treatment for DRUJ instability. [24] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2020.08.001)
- [L5] Advances in minimally invasive surgical techniques have transformed the management of DRUJ instability. [25] (10.1177/17531934261417561)
- [L5] Stability of the distal radioulnar joint is maintained by two factors: compression between the articulating surfaces and tension in the ligament in the direction of its fibers. [29] (10.1016/j.hcl.2010.05.002)
- [L5] Anatomical variations in the sigmoid notch and ulnar head significantly influence joint mechanics and treatment outcomes. [30] (10.1016/j.hcl.2012.03.002)
- [L5] This article reviews the anatomy, biomechanics, and treatment of acute dislocations of the distal radioulnar joint and distal ulna fractures, emphasizing that closed treatment is frequently successful for isolated dislocations due to the healing potential of the peripheral TFCC. [31] (10.1016/j.hcl.2010.05.009)
- [L5] Radial lengthening did not demonstrate a benefit in improving DRUJ stability in a triangular fibrocartilage complex injury model. [32] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2025.06.013)
- [L5] Pressures within the DRUJ changed with forearm rotations, with the highest intra-articular pressure recorded in supination under no disruption-no load, no disruption-loaded, and disrupted TFCC conditions. [33] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2023.11.015)
- [L5] Surgical outcomes are best when performed before the patient displays severe joint destruction, fixed contractures, subluxation, or dislocation. [34] (10.1016/j.hcl.2005.08.009)
- [L5] While anatomical reduction of the distal radius is key, there is no clear clinical advantage to fixing the ulnar styloid or reinserting the TFCC in all cases of instability, though debate remains regarding specific fracture patterns. [35] (10.1177/17531934241268980)
- [L5] Imaging the DRUJ requires knowledge of the complex bony, muscular, and ligamentous anatomy; standard well-positioned radiography is the appropriate first step, while high-resolution MRI helps delineate ligamentous structures and dynamic CT is indicated for clinical instability. [36] (10.1016/j.hcl.2010.07.001)
- [L4] The combined HS and suture repair effectively restores stability to both the DRUJ and UCJ in patients with TFCC-related ulnocarpal instability, considerably reducing pain and preserving range of motion. [37] (10.1016/j.jhsg.2025.100806)
- [L4] The occurrence of osteoarthritis of the scaphotrapeziotrapezoid and distal radioulnar joints was affected by the presence of osteoarthritis of the adjacent joint. [38] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2023.05.009)
- [L5] Future efforts to develop reliable and quantifiable methods for analyzing DRUJ instability are essential for improving the management and treatment of this condition. [39] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2025.06.021)
- [L4] Adding a distally based longitudinal extensor carpi ulnaris strip to ulnar shortening osteotomy for restoring distal radioulnar joint stability seems to be an effective treatment in patients with irreparable degenerative triangular fibrocartilage complex injuries due to ulnar impaction syndrome. [40] (10.1177/17531934231197942)
See Also¶
References¶
[1] Salvage of Failed Distal Radioulnar Joint Reconstruction. Hand Clinics. 2010. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2010.05.004
[2] The distal radioulnar joint after distal radial fractures: when and how do we need to treat pain, stiffness or instability?. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2023. DOI: 10.1177/17531934221140238
[3] Hemiresection Arthroplasty of the Distal Radioulnar Joint. Hand Clinics. 2005. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2005.08.002
[4] Solutions for the Unstable and Arthritic Distal Radioulnar Joint. Hand Clinics. 2020. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2020.07.008
[5] Factors associated with variation in treatment of the distal radioulnar joint after plate fixation of distal radial fractures. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2026. DOI: 10.1177/17531934261449057
[6] Does the distal radioulnar joint orientation influence the outcome of ulnar shortening osteotomy: a retrospective study. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2024. DOI: 10.1177/17531934241262931
[7] Distal radioulnar joint instability: current concepts of treatment. Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery. 2020. DOI: 10.1007/s00402-020-03371-0
[8] Chronic Distal Radioulnar Joint Instability. Hand Clinics. 2020. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2020.07.004
[9] Stability of the distal radioulnar joint with and without activation of forearm muscles. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2023. DOI: 10.1177/17531934231168299
[10] Exposures of the Wrist and Distal Radioulnar Joint. Hand Clinics. 2014. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2014.07.003
[11] Failed Ulnar Head Resection: Prevention and Treatment. Journal of Hand Surgery. 2002. DOI: 10.1054/jhsb.2002.0815
[12] The Management of Chronic Distal Radioulnar Instability. Hand Clinics. 2010. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2010.05.010
[13] Instability of the distal radioulnar joint. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2014. DOI: 10.1177/1753193414527052
[14] Management of Complications of Distal Radioulnar Joint. Hand Clinics. 2015. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2014.12.003
[15] Efficacy and safety of prosthetic arthroplasty of the distal radioulnar joint: a systematic review. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2026. DOI: 10.1177/17531934261415827
[16] Long-term results of the AptisTM total distal radioulnar joint prosthesis after previous failed surgical procedures. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2023. DOI: 10.1177/17531934231192375
[17] Distal radioulnar joint: functional anatomy, including pathomechanics. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2017. DOI: 10.1177/1753193417693170
[18] Diagnostic modalities for distal radioulnar joint. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2016. DOI: 10.1177/1753193416683876
[19] Pain and instability ascribed to the distal radioulnar ligaments and central disc as part of the triangular fibrocartilage complex: a round table discussion. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2024. DOI: 10.1177/17531934241254705
[20] Distal Radius Fracture and the Distal Radioulnar Joint. Hand Clinics. 2021. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2021.02.011
[21] Non-constrained implant arthroplasty for the distal radioulnar joint. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2017. DOI: 10.1177/1753193417693177
[22] Radial Distraction to Stabilize Distal Radioulnar Joint in Distal Radius Fixation. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2018. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2018.02.030
[23] Coronal Shift of Distal Radius Fractures: Influence of the Distal Interosseous Membrane on Distal Radioulnar Joint Instability. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2015. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2014.08.022
[24] The Original Anatomic Reconstruction of Palmar and Dorsal Radioulnar Ligaments for Distal Radioulnar Joint Instability. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2020. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2020.08.001
[25] Restoring balance in the distal radioulnar joint: advancements in minimally invasive surgical approaches. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2026. DOI: 10.1177/17531934261417561
[29] Understanding Stability of the Distal Radioulnar Joint Through an Understanding of Its Anatomy. Hand Clinics. 2010. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2010.05.002
[30] Anatomy and Biomechanics of the Distal Radioulnar Joint. Hand Clinics. 2012. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2012.03.002
[31] Acute Dislocations of the Distal Radioulnar Joint and Distal Ulna Fractures. Hand Clinics. 2010. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2010.05.009
[32] Effect of Radial Lengthening on the Stability of the Distal Radioulnar Joint: A Biomechanical Cadaveric Study. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2026. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2025.06.013
[33] Intra-Articular Pressure in the Distal Radioulnar Joint: A Biomechanical Study. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2025. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2023.11.015
[34] Management of the Distal Radioulnar Joint in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Hand Clinics. 2005. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2005.08.009
[35] Round table discussion. Distal radioulnar joint instability after surgical treatment of distal radial fractures. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2024. DOI: 10.1177/17531934241268980
[36] Imaging the Distal Radioulnar Joint. Hand Clinics. 2010. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2010.07.001
[37] Extensor Retinaculum Capsulorrhaphy and Suture Repair for Ulnocarpal and Distal Radioulnar Joint Instability: One-Year Results. Journal of Hand Surgery Global Online. 2025. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsg.2025.100806
[38] Prevalence and Associated Factors for Primary Osteoarthritis of the Scaphotrapeziotrapezoid, Radiocarpal, and Distal Radioulnar Joints in the Japanese General Elderly Population. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2025. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2023.05.009
[39] Assessment Strategies for Distal Radioulnar Joint Instability: Current State and a Need for Improved Tools. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2025. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2025.06.021
[40] An alternative treatment for degenerative triangular fibrocartilage complex injuries with distal radioulnar joint instability: first experience with 48 patients. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2023. DOI: 10.1177/17531934231197942