Distal Radioulnar Joint Arthroplasty with a Scheker Prosthesis

Abstract

We report a case of distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) arthroplasty with a Scheker prosthesis. Arthropathy of the DRUJ can occur as the result of a variety of mechanisms, including inflammatory arthritis, osteoarthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis. Resection of the distal ulna is often performed to relieve pain at the DRUJ. However, this can also disrupt the stability of the entire forearm, leading to convergence instability of the stump of the ulna against the radius. Several DRUJ prostheses have been developed to replace the mechanical function of the ulnar head in patients with pain related to distal ulnar resection and post-traumatic arthritis. However, most of them are designed to be used in patients with intact soft tissue and stabilizing ligaments at the DRUJ. These devices, therefore, are not appropriate for use in patients who have undergone resection of the DRUJ. The Scheker prosthesis was designed for patients who are symptomatic after ablation of the DRUJ from trauma or prior surgical resection. It uses a two plate and ball design, which has a unique appearance on post-operative radiographs.