Outcomes of Primary Volar Locking Plate Fixation of Open Distal Radius Fractures.

Background: Few studies have reported the outcomes of primary volar locking plate fixation in Gustilo and Anderson type II and IIIA open distal radius fractures. We report the outcomes of treatment of Gustilo and Anderson type II and IIIA open distal radius fractures using primary volar locking plate fixation. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 24 patients with open distal radius fractures who were treated using primary volar locking plate fixation. The range of motion (ROM) and modified Mayo wrist scores were measured to assess functional outcomes. Radiological outcomes included the bone union period, radial inclination, volar tilt, radial length and ulnar variance. Results: Functional outcomes, including mean ROM in flexion (39.1°) and extension (52.5°), improved following primary volar locking plate treatment. Radiological outcomes were as follows. Mean bone union period, radial length and ulnar variance were 7.8 months, 10.4 and 0.7 mm, respectively. Two patients had superficial wound infection 2 weeks after surgery and one patient had non-union of the radius that required implant removal, autologous iliac crest bone graft and plate re-fixation. Conclusions: Primary volar locking plate fixation is a safe and reliable treatment option for Gustilo and Anderson type II and IIIA open distal radius fractures. By providing firm stabilisation and allowing early ROM exercise, primary volar locking plate fixation resulted in good functional and radiological outcomes. Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic).

Neurolymphomatosis of the Ulnar Nerve Presenting as Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: A Case Report.

Lymphoma is a malignant tumour of the lymphatic system. Neurolymphomatosis occurs when lymphoma cells invade the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Neurolymphomatosis has been reported involving the sciatic nerve, nerve roots and within the axilla and the upper arm. It can cause nerve dysfunction depending on the involved nerve. Neurolymphomatosis involving the ulnar nerve is rare. We report a patient with neurolymphomatosis of the ulnar nerve around the elbow that presented with features of cubital tunnel syndrome. A high index of suspicion is necessary in patients with cubital tunnel syndrome that present with uncommon symptoms such as sudden onset, rapid progression and/or severe pain. Level of Evidence: Level V (Therapeutic).

UNWANTED RADIATION EXPOSURE TO RADIOSENSITIVE ORGANS DURING HAND CT.

This study aimed to investigate unwanted radiation exposure of radiosensitive organs during computed tomography (CT) scans of the hand. Furthermore, we investigated the effectiveness of a shield in reducing unwanted radiation exposure. In a prospective observational study, the patients were randomized to receive a shield during the hand CT scan. Two group of patients were further randomized to undergo multi-detector CT (MDCT) or cone-beam CT (CBCT). The radiation dose was measured in the target point and the nearest skin surface of radiosensitive organs by attached the thermoluminescent dosemeter chips. When shielding was performed, the radiation doses had decreased significantly with a mean of 79% (65-91%) in the MDCT group and 88.6% (85-93%) in the CBCT group. In the non-shielded group, the radiation doses to the radiosensitive organs decreased inversely with increasing distance, which means that the closer the target point is, the more unwanted radiation exposure increases. It is important to keep radiosensitive organs as far as possible from the target point during CT scan. In particular, it is necessary to shield the radiosensitive organs closer to the target point. Level of Evidence: Level II, Prospective observational study.

Trigger finger due to phalangeal osteochondroma of an adult: A case report.

Trigger finger is stenosing tenosynovitis that occurs in A1 pulley. It usually occurs idiopathically in patients' 40s and 50s. On the other hand, pediatric trigger finger usually occurs before 8 years old in pediatric patients. Even though being rare, a tumor occurred in the soft tissue or bone near flexor tendons can cause a trigger finger. Trigger finger due to osteochondroma is very rare. Furthermore, most cases of trigger finger due to osteochondroma occur in pediatric patients with hereditary multiple osteochondromatosis (HMO). The authors report this case of a trigger finger caused by a solitary osteochondroma that occurred in the proximal portion of the proximal phalanx of the left middle finger, of a 21-year-old patient. The symptoms were relieved after excision of the osteochondroma. If a patient with unusual demographics visits, the cause of trigger finger may not be idiopathic. Evaluation methods such as x-rays and ultrasonography can be helpful to rule out other causes, such as tumors.

Reverse digital artery cross-finger flap for reconstruction of failed finger replantation.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to describe the reverse digital artery cross-finger flap (RDAC flap) in the treatment of failed finger replantation. METHODS: This study retrospectively reviewed the records of patients who underwent modified RDAC flap reconstructions for failed finger replantation and assessed their outcomes. Of the patients who underwent soft tissue reconstructions for finger injuries between March 2011 and February 2015, we enrolled 11 patients in whom RDAC flap reconstruction procedures were performed to treat the failed replantations. RESULTS: The flaps survived in all cases, with a mean static, two-point discrimination value of 5.3 mm (range, 4-7 mm) in the healed flaps. The sizes of the flaps ranged from 2 × 1 cm2 to 2.3 × 1.5 cm2. CONCLUSION: The RDAC flap was introduced by Lai et al., and it is a mixed form with the advantages of both cross-finger flap and heterodigital island flap. Our results suggest that it could provide reliable coverage of the sensate soft tissue of fingers with failed replantation.

Comparative study of ultrasonography-guided percutaneous A1 pulley release versus blinded percutaneous A1 pulley release.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare the results of blind versus ultrasonography-guided percutaneous A1 pulley release for treatment of trigger finger. METHODS: This prospective study included 21 patients (25 fingers) who underwent blind release and 20 patients (23 fingers) who underwent ultrasonography-guided release. The visual analog scale (VAS) score, proximal interphalangeal joint contracture, complications, and patient satisfaction were compared between the groups. RESULTS: At the final follow-up, triggering had disappeared in all patients who underwent ultrasonography-guided release, whereas three patients who underwent blind release required revision surgery for postoperative triggering. No complications were observed. VAS score was significantly different between groups at 2 and 4 weeks postoperatively. All patients who underwent ultrasonography-guided release were satisfied, whereas three patients who underwent blind release were not satisfied. CONCLUSION: Ultrasonography-guided percutaneous A1 pulley release for treatment of trigger finger reduces postoperative pain and complications, such as incomplete release, compared with a blind procedure.

Gorham's disease in humerus treated with autogenous vascularized fibular graft.

Gorham's disease is a rare disorder of the bone characterized by progressive massive osteolysis. The pathophysiology is unknown, and diagnosis is often difficult. Most cases are often recognized retrospectively. There is no standardized treatment and management for Gorham's disease. We report a case of an 18-year-old male presenting with a pathologic fracture in the humerus shaft diagnosed with Gorham's disease. Patient was treated with autogenous vascularized fibular graft with wide excision and a 10 years followup after first surgery.

Is the arthroscopic suture bridge technique suitable for full-thickness rotator cuff tears of any size?

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare functional outcomes and tendon integrity between the suture bridge and modified tension band techniques for arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. METHODS: A consecutive series of 128 patients who underwent the modified tension band (MTB group; 69 patients) and suture bridge (SB group; 59 patients) techniques were enrolled. The pain visual analogue scale (VAS), Constant, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores were determined preoperatively and at the final follow-up. Rotator cuff hypotrophy was quantified by calculating the occupation ratio (OR). Rotator cuff integrity and the global fatty degeneration index were determined by using magnetic resonance imaging at 6 months postoperatively. RESULTS: The average VAS, Constant, and ASES scores improved significantly at the final follow-up in both groups (p < 0.05 for all scores). The retear rate of small-to-medium tears was similar in the modified tension band and suture bridge groups (7.0 vs. 6.8%, respectively; p = n.s.). The retear rate of large-to-massive tears was significantly lower in the suture bridge group than in the modified tension band group (33.3 vs. 70%; p = 0.035). Fatty infiltration (postoperative global fatty degeneration index, p = 0.022) and muscle hypotrophy (postoperative OR, p = 0.038) outcomes were significantly better with the suture bridge technique. CONCLUSION: The retear rate was lower with the suture bridge technique in the case of large-to-massive rotator cuff tears. Additionally, significant improvements in hypotrophy and fatty infiltration of the rotator cuff were obtained with the suture bridge technique, possibly resulting in better anatomical outcomes. The suture bridge technique was a more effective method for the repair of rotator cuff tears of all sizes as compared to the modified tension band technique. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Retrospective Cohort Design, Treatment Study, level III.

BPA-toxicity via superoxide anion overload and a deficit in ß-catenin signaling in human bone mesenchymal stem cells.

Bisphenol A (BPA), used in the manufacture of products based on polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, is well known as an endocrine-disrupting monomer. In the current study, BPA increased cytotoxicity in hBMSCs in a dose- and time-dependent manner, concomitantly with increased lipid peroxidation. Increased cell death in BPA-treated cells was markedly blocked by pretreatment with the superoxide dismutase mimetic MnTBAP and MnTMPyP, but not by catalase, glutathione, the glutathione peroxidase mimetic ebselen, the NOS inhibitor NAME, or the xanthine oxidase inhibitor allopurinol. Furthermore, the decline in nuclear ß-catenin and cyclin D1 levels in hBMSCs exposed to BPA was reversed by MnTBAP treatment. Finally, treatment of hBMSCs with the GSK3ß inhibitor LiCl2 increased nuclear ß-catenin levels and significantly attenuated cytotoxicity compared with BPA treatment. Our current results in hBMSCs exposed to BPA suggest that BPA causes a disturbance in ß-catenin signaling via a superoxide anion overload. © 2016 The Authors Environmental Toxicology Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 32: 344-352, 2017.

Arthroscopic Lateral Collateral Ligament Repair.

BACKGROUND: Lateral ulnar collateral ligament injury following unstable elbow dislocation can induce posterolateral rotatory instability that requires surgery. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of arthroscopic repair of the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) complex in an unstable elbow joint. METHODS: The study group consisted of 13 patients who experienced posterolateral rotatory instability after an unstable elbow dislocation with an injury to the lateral ulnar collateral ligament. The diagnosis was confirmed with computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and physical examination. The patients underwent arthroscopically assisted surgery between May 2011 and January 2013 and were followed for a minimum of 18 months postoperatively. Coronoid and/or radial head fractures combined with the ligament injury were treated through an arthroscopic technique. Range of motion, pain, outcomes according to the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and Nestor grading system, and surgical complications were evaluated. CT and MRI were performed at 3 months postoperatively, and isometric muscle strength was measured at the time of final follow-up. RESULTS: At the time of final follow-up, at a minimum of 18 months, all 13 patients reported complete resolution of the instability and average (and standard deviation) extension of 3° ± 1°, flexion of 138° ± 6°, supination of 88° ± 5°, and pronation of 87° ± 6. The mean MEPS was 92 points and, according to this validated outcome score, the results were rated as excellent in 12 patients and good in 1 patient. According to the Nestor grading system, the results were rated as excellent in 11 patients and good in 2. Complete healing was seen on the 3-month follow-up MRI in 12 patients; however, 1 patient had mild widening of the radiocapitellar joint space with incomplete healing but no instability symptoms. All patients demonstrated normal strength on elbow flexion, extension, pronation, and supination at the final follow-up visit. CONCLUSIONS: Arthroscopic repair of the LCL complex in patients with posterolateral rotatory instability after an unstable elbow dislocation, with or without an intra-articular fracture, is an alternative treatment option for restoring elbow stability and achieving satisfactory clinical and radiographic results. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

The "Fish Hook" Technique for Bony Mallet Finger.

This study describes a new technique called the "fish hook" technique for the treatment of bony mallet finger. This technique catches the dorsal fragment with a bent K-wire shaped like a fish hook. Transarticular fixation is performed with another K-wire. This technique does not directly penetrate the bone fragment to prevent fragment comminution. This study included 26 patients with mallet finger fractures who underwent surgery using the fish hook technique between 2010 and 2014. The fractures were classified according to the method of Wehbe and Schneider. The fracture fragment was fixed with a fish hook technique in all patients. The K-wire was removed after 6 weeks, when bone union was achieved. Clinical parameters, including range of motion and extensor lag, were assessed at the distal interphalangeal joint according to Crawford's criteria. The mean follow-up period was 12.8 months. Mean extensor lag was 3°, and mean range of flexion of the distal interphalangeal joint was 76°. All patients achieved bone union after 6 weeks. According to Crawford's criteria, there were 20 excellent results, 5 good results, and 1 fair result. No complications, including skin necrosis, pin loosening, and nail deformity, occurred. The fish hook technique is an effective treatment option for bony mallet finger and provides good clinical and radiologic results. [Orthopedics.2016; 39(5):295-298.].

Is the arthroscopic modified tension band suture technique suitable for all full-thickness rotator cuff tears?

BACKGROUND: We aimed to identify the clinical and structural outcomes after arthroscopic repair of full-thickness rotator cuff tears of all sizes with a modified tension band suture technique. METHODS: Among 63 patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair for a full-thickness rotator cuff tear with the modified tension band suture technique at a single hospital between July 2011 and March 2013, 47 were enrolled in this study. The mean follow-up period was 29 months. Visual analog scale scores, range of motion, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores, Constant scores, and Shoulder Strength Index were measured preoperatively and at the final follow-up. For radiologic evaluation, we conducted magnetic resonance imaging 6 months postoperatively and ultrasonography at the final follow-up. We allocated the small and medium tears to group A and the large and massive tears to group B and then compared clinical outcomes and repair integrity. RESULTS: Postoperative clinical outcomes at the final follow-up showed significant improvements compared with those seen during preoperative evaluations (P < .001). However, group B showed worse clinical results than group A. Evaluation with magnetic resonance imaging performed 6 months postoperatively and ultrasonography taken at the final follow-up revealed that group B showed a significantly higher retear rate than did group A (69% vs. 6%, respectively; P < .001). CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic repair with the modified tension band suture technique for rotator cuff tears was a more suitable method for small to medium tears than for large to massive tears.

The Results of All-Inside Meniscus Repair Using the Viper Repair System Simultaneously with Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Meniscus tears are commonly associated with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures. It is essential to repair meniscal tears as much as possible to prevent early osteoarthritis and to gain additional stability in the knee joint. We evaluated the results of arthroscopic all-inside repair using the Meniscal Viper Repair System (Arthrex) on meniscus tears simultaneously with ACL reconstruction. METHODS: Nineteen out of 22 patients who were treated with arthroscopic all-inside repair using the Meniscal Viper Repair System for meniscus tear associated with ACL rupture were evaluated. ACL reconstructions were performed at the same period. The mean follow-up period was 16.5 months (range, 12 to 24 months). The clinical results of the meniscus repair were evaluated by symptoms (such as catching or locking), tenderness, effusion, range of motion limitation, and the McMurray test. Clinical success was defined by negative results in all five categories. The Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) score was evaluated. Objective results were evaluated with secondary look arthroscopy or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The MRI results were categorized as completely repaired, incompletely repaired, and failure by Henning's classification. The results of second-look arthroscopy were evaluated with the criteria of meniscal healing. RESULTS: The clinical success rate was 95.4% and the HSS scores were 93.9 ± 5.4 at the final follow-up. According to Henning's classification, 15 out of 18 cases showed complete healing (83.3%) and two cases (11.1%) showed incomplete healing. Seventeen out of 18 cases that underwent second-look arthroscopy showed complete healing (94.4%) according to the criteria of meniscal healing. Only one case showed failure and the failure was due to a re-rupture at the sutured area. Complications of ACL reconstruction or meniscus repair were not present. CONCLUSIONS: The results demonstrate that arthroscopic all-inside repair using the Meniscal Viper Repair System is an effective treatment method when it is performed simultaneously with ACL reconstruction.

Scaphotrapeziotrapezoid arthrodesis and lunate excision for advanced Kienböck disease.

PURPOSE: To analyze the outcomes of lunate excision combined with scaphotrapeziotrapezoid arthrodesis for the treatment of advanced Kienböck disease. METHODS: Sixteen patients with Lichtman stage IIIB Kienböck disease were treated with scaphotrapeziotrapezoid arthrodesis and lunate excision and were followed for a mean of 67 months (range, 49 to 108 mo). The indications for lunate excision included pain and limited motion associated with a collapsed lunate. Clinical evaluation included range of motion, grip strength, and modified Mayo wrist score. Based on plain radiographs, the carpal height ratio, ulnar carpal distance ratio, scaphoid translation ratio, and radioscaphoid angle were measured and any presence of degenerative changes was assessed. To investigate the effects of lunate excision on the radiologic results, we compared 12 patients with stage IIIB Kienböck disease who had only scaphotrapeziotrapezoid arthrodesis as the control group. RESULTS: Range of motion tended to be preserved, with a trend toward an increase in extension after surgery. Grip strength and modified Mayo score improved significantly. Fourteen patients with lunate excision demonstrated radiographic ulnar translation of the scaphoid beyond the scapholunate ridge, and radioscaphoid arthritis was observed in 4 patients. Compared to initial postoperative radiographs, the scaphoid translation ratio was significantly decreased, but neither ulnar carpal distance ratio nor radioscaphoid angle showed significant differences. In the control group, neither ulnar translation of the scaphoid nor significant changes of radiologic parameters was found between initial postoperative and final radiographs. CONCLUSIONS: Scaphotrapeziotrapezoid arthrodesis with lunate excision for advanced Kienböck disease provided favorable clinical results in terms of pain relief and functional improvement. With the absence of the lunate, however, the scaphoid had a tendency to shift toward the lunate fossa. This study suggests the risk of early development of radioscaphoid arthritis as a negative effect of lunate excision.

Arthroscopic treatment of lateral epicondylitis: comparison of the outcome of ECRB release with and without decortication.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare the early clinical results of arthroscopic extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) release with and without bone decortication in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-eight patients who were surgically treated for lateral epicondylitis between 2004 and 2008 were included in this retrospective review. Among these 38 patients, 19 underwent arthroscopic ECRB release and 19 patients underwent both ECRB release with decortication of the lateral epicondyle. Outcome measures included pain assessment measured by visual analog scale (VAS) preoperatively, on postoperative day one, at two and 4 weeks postoperatively, and at the final follow-up visit. Functional evaluation was made with the Mayo Elbow Performance Index and grip strength measurement. RESULTS: Patients who underwent simple ECRB release had significantly less pain than patients who underwent ECRB release and decortication immediately postoperatively (p < 0.05). This group also showed a lower VAS score on exertion 2 weeks and 4 weeks after simple ECRB release (p < 0.05). The mean time taken to return to work was 24.2 ± 18.3 days in the group that underwent simple ECRB release and 39 ± 22.7 days in the group that underwent ECRB release with decortication (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Arthroscopic release of the ECRB is an effective method of treatment in patients with recalcitrant lateral epicondylitis. Decortication of the lateral epicondyle leads to increased pain postoperatively and did not improve clinical results.

Surgical Release for Posttraumatic Loss of Elbow Flexion.

INTRODUCTION: We describe a surgical release for patients who have a lack of elbow flexion limiting the ability to perform activities of daily living after trauma. STEP 1 MOBILIZE THE ULNAR NERVE: Mobilize the ulnar nerve through the cubital tunnel with the accompanying superior ulnar collateral vessels. STEP 2 DISSECT THE TRICEPS AND RESECT THE POSTERIOR ASPECT OF THE CAPSULE: Dissect the triceps from the distal part of the humerus and resect the posterior aspect of the capsule to expose the olecranon tip and fossa. STEP 3 RESECT THE POSTERIOR BAND OF THE MEDIAL COLLATERAL LIGAMENT: Release the posterior band of the medial collateral ligament while continually checking the flexion arc until >130° of flexion can be achieved. STEP 4 RESECT THE ANTERIOR ASPECT OF THE CAPSULE: Perform an anterior approach if there is persistent flexion contracture or any impingement restricting full flexion. STEP 5 LENGTHEN THE TRICEPS IF INDICATED: Consider triceps lengthening if you cannot achieve >130° of passive flexion with two fingers. STEP 6 TRANSPOSE THE ULNAR NERVE ANTERIORLY: Locate the released ulnar nerve over the medial humeral epicondyle on the fascia overlying the common flexor-pronator muscles. STEP 7 POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: Physical therapy consists of active-assisted and gentle passive flexion and extension exercises of the elbow, usually for two to six months. RESULTS: Forty-two patients with <100° of elbow flexion as an extrinsic contracture following trauma had a surgical release of the elbow at a median of ten months postinjury. WHAT TO WATCH FOR: IndicationsContraindicationsPitfalls & Challenges.

Surgical release for posttraumatic loss of elbow flexion.

BACKGROUND: Several surgical approaches have been suggested for the treatment of posttraumatic elbow stiffness; however, the optimal approach to elbows with considerable loss of flexion has not been well described. We investigated the pathologic lesions causing posttraumatic loss of elbow flexion and analyzed the results of surgical release. METHODS: Forty-two patients with <100° of elbow flexion due to an extrinsic contracture following trauma underwent surgical release at a median of ten months after injury. To achieve maximum flexion, release of the posterior band of the medial collateral ligament was mandatory in all patients, and only four patients required additional anterior procedures. The ulnar nerve was transposed anteriorly in forty patients, including three who had had a previous transposition. To evaluate the results, we compared preoperative and postoperative elbow motion, Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI) scores, and radiographs. RESULTS: Intraoperatively, heterotopic ossification was observed in forty patients. It was located predominantly in the posteromedial aspect of the capsule. Heterotopic bone was more commonly found during surgery than it was identified preoperatively on radiographs. Mean flexion increased significantly from 89° preoperatively to 124° (range, 90° to 140°) at a mean of thirty-nine months postoperatively. The mean size of the flexion contracture decreased from 34° preoperatively to 9° (range, 0° to 30°) postoperatively. Overall, ≥120° of final flexion and a total arc of ≥100° were regained by 88% of the patients. The mean MEPI score improved significantly from 73 points preoperatively to 94 points (range, 72 to 100 points) postoperatively, with the result rated as excellent in thirty-two patients, good in eight, and fair in two. Two patients had clinical recurrence of heterotopic ossification associated with a failure to obtain an increase in flexion. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that posttraumatic heterotopic ossification, particularly in the posteromedial aspect of the capsule, is closely associated with loss of elbow flexion. Satisfactory restoration of elbow flexion can be obtained in the majority of patients by surgical release of the posterior band of the medial collateral ligament and excision of heterotopic bone.

Arthroscopic synovectomy for the rheumatoid elbow.

PURPOSE: To describe an arthroscopic technique for complete removal of the synovium from the elbow joint and to investigate the clinical outcomes of arthroscopic synovectomy in patients with rheumatoid elbow. METHODS: Arthroscopic synovectomy was performed on 26 rheumatoid elbows in 25 patients with radiographic changes of Larsen grade 3 or less. We performed total synovectomy of the elbow using multiple portals and by dividing the elbow into the anterior, posterior, and radiocapitellar compartments. At a mean follow-up of 33.9 months (range, 13 to 68 months), pain was evaluated with a visual analog scale and range of motion was measured. The Mayo Elbow Performance Score was used to assess total elbow function. Radiologic changes were determined according to the Larsen grading system. RESULTS: The mean visual analog scale score for pain decreased from 6.5 to 3.1, and the mean flexion arc increased from 98.1 degrees to 113.3 degrees after the operation. The mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score improved from 58.5 to 77.4 points. There were 2 excellent, 17 good, 4 fair, and 3 poor results. Radiologic assessment showed no change in 13 elbows, improvement in 6, and progression in 7. Clinically apparent synovitis recurred in 4 elbows, in which the result was considered unsuccessful. CONCLUSIONS: Arthroscopic synovectomy of the elbow by use of multiple portals is a technically feasible procedure. It can effectively relieve pain, increase range of motion, improve Mayo Elbow Performance Score, and delay radiologic progression in rheumatoid elbows, resulting in a high satisfaction rate, although recurrent synovitis occurs in some patients. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Anatomic reconstruction of the distal radioulnar ligament for posttraumatic distal radioulnar joint instability.

BACKGROUND: To analyze clinical outcomes after anatomical reconstruction of distal radioulnar ligaments in patients with chronic post-traumatic instability of the distal radioulnar joint. METHODS: Anatomical reconstruction was performed in 16 patients with subluxation or dynamic instability of distal radioulnar joint following trauma. Osteotomy was performed simultaneously in 10 patients with radial malunion. The average follow-up period was 18.9 months. For clinical outcome assessment, we performed the anteroposterior stress test, measured the range of motion and grip strength, and performed radiological examination. For assessment of the pain and function, we used the Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation, the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand, and the Modified Mayo Wrist Score. RESULTS: Anteroposterior stress test performed at the last follow-up showed normal in 12 patients, mild laxity in 3, and residual subluxation in one. The average Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation was 9.1 for pain and 11.2 for function. The average Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score was 10.5. The average Modified Mayo Wrist Score was 92.8; there were 10 excellent, 5 good, and 1 poor case. The average grip strength improved from 69.7 1b to 80.9 1b. A revision osteotomy was performed on the patient with residual subluxation in order to obtain normal alignment of the joint. CONCLUSIONS: Anatomical reconstruction of the distal radioulnar ligaments is recommended to restore distal radioulnar joint stability. In addition to ligament reconstruction, realignment of the distal radioulnar joint seems critical when the instability is combined with malunion of the radius.