Surgical treatment of ulnar styloid fractures associated with DRUJ instability

Abstract

Objective To introduce the surgical indications and treatment options of combined distal radial and ulnar styloid fractures associated with DRUJ instability.Methods Twelve patients suffering from combined distal radial and ulnar styloid fractures were treated between January 2005 and June 2009.The ulnar styloid was fixed by a Kirschner wire and tension band.Meanwhile the DRUJ was stabilized by anchoring the deep structure of the radioulnar ligament to the ulnar fossa.Results The duration of postoperative follow-up ranged from 6 to 18 months.Bone union of the distal radius and ulnar styloid was achieved in all 12 cases.According to modified Mayo wrist score,the results were excellent in 4 cases,good in 5 cases,moderate in 2 cases and bad in 1 case.Conclusion Ulnar styloid plays an important role in DRUJ stability.Fixation of ulnar styloid fracture that affects the radioulnar ligament and repairing the deep radioulnar fibers is critical for stabilizing the DRUJ. Key words: Fracture fixation; Ligaments; Reconstructive surgical procedures; DRUJ