Arthritis of the distal radioulnar joint: from Darrach to total joint arthroplasty

J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2012 Oct;20(10):623-32. doi: 10.5435/JAAOS-20-10-623.

Abstract

The distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) is a complex structure that contributes to full, painless forearm rotation and weight bearing. Stability requires adequate bony architecture and robust soft-tissue support. Arthritis of the DRUJ between the sigmoid notch of the distal radius and the ulnar head can be caused by traumatic, inflammatory, congenital, and degenerative processes. Initial management of symptomatic DRUJ arthritis is nonsurgical. Surgery is reserved for patients with refractory pain. Although outcomes typically are positive following excision of the distal ulna, serious potential postoperative complications include instability and potentially painful impingement of the residual distal ulnar stump. Procedures used to manage the unstable residual ulna include soft-tissue stabilization techniques and DRUJ implant arthroplasty.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Arthritis / diagnosis*
  • Arthritis / etiology
  • Arthritis / surgery*
  • Arthroplasty / methods
  • Diagnostic Imaging
  • Humans
  • Joint Instability / diagnosis
  • Joint Instability / surgery
  • Physical Examination
  • Radius / pathology
  • Ulna / pathology
  • Wrist Joint / pathology*
  • Wrist Joint / surgery