A case of acute dorsal radiocarpal dislocation with radial styloid fracture

Abstract

We describe a case report of dorsal radiocarpal dislocation with fracture of the radial styloid process. A 21-year-old right-handed male was injured in a fall while snowboarding. Plain radiographic findings revealed dorsal dislocation of radiocarpal joint with fracture of the radial styloid process; we performed CT studies to examine the radius fracture in greater detail. These findings revealed a radial styloid fracture with avulsion fracture of dorsal articular margin of the distal part of the radius. Surgical treatment was performed 4 days after the injury. However, it was impossible to reduce the dorsal dislocation of radiocarpal joint only after the fixation of the radial styloid process. The dorsal radiocarpal ligaments and articular capsule had ruptured transversely on the radiocarpal joint with avulsion fracture of dorsal articular margin of the distal part of the radius. To repair the torn ligaments and capsule, we inserted three mini suture anchors into the dorsal edge of the radius and fixed these tissues on the radius. At present, 1 year after surgery, he has no pain with activity or at rest, and satisfactory results have been obtained.