Acute Distal Radioulnar Joint Instability in Adults: A Critical Analysis Review.

Abstract

Acute instability of the distal radioulnar joint most commonly results from traumatic injury to the distal part of the radius or the ulnar styloid, although injury to any portion of the radius or ulna may cause distal radioulnar joint instability. Instability between the radius and the ulna at the wrist may limit forearm rotation and may prevent stable transmission of load across the radiocarpal and ulnocarpal joints. Instability is diagnosed primarily on the basis of physical examination. Imaging studies and wrist arthroscopy may be used to distinguish deficient structures and to assist with surgical planning. The treatment of acute distal radioulnar joint instability should address the structures that are injured and should take into account the anatomic variability and the presence of arthritis or other conditions affecting the distal radioulnar joint. Prompt recognition of these injuries and treatment of deficient structures may limit morbidity associated with instability of the distal radioulnar joint. The distal radioulnar joint is an incongruent, diarthroidal joint between the sigmoid notch of the distal part of the radius and the seat of the …