Radioulnar Ligaments Research Articles

Stabilization of the Distal Radioulnar Joint According to Adams: Clinical, and Radiological Results

Stabilization of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) with reconstruction of distal radioulnar ligaments as outlined by Adams is indicated if a refixation of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is no longer possible. There is little information given on the results of these procedures in literature. The purpose of this retrospective study was to analyze with use of objective and subjective criteria, whether the reconstruction of the radioulnar ligaments according to Adams allows a sufficient re-stabilization of the DRUJ. 14 patients (9 female, 5 male) with a mean age of 29 (24-62) years underwent an Adams' procedure between 2004 to 2011. After an average follow up of 67 (26-110) months 11 patients could be examined retrospectively regarding functional results and subjective self assessment. As objective parameters assessment of distal radioulnar joint stability, range of forearm rotation and grip strength were measured. Krimmer- and Mayo Wrist Score were evaluated. Subjective parameters as DASH-score, patient's self assessment and pain (verbal and visual analogue scale) were recorded. In 5 patients the DRUJ was stable, in 2 it was lax. According the 4 patients with ongoing instability, one patient reported on improvement, 2 on unchanged instability and one an impaired sensation of instability. In 2 patients clicking during forearm rotation could be provoked. 2 patients suffered from restricted forearm rotation with loss of range of motion of 60 and 70° respectively. Pronation-supination averaged 89% of the opposite side and 99% compared to preoperative. Grip strength averaged 69% of the opposite side. Krimmer-Score was 74, Mayo Wrist-Score 73, and DASH-Score 24 points. Pain at rest on visual analogue scale (0-10) was 3 and 5 with activity. 6 patients had improved, 2 declined and 3 unchanged pain. Patient´s satisfaction rated 0-10 was 8. Eight would undergo again same operation procedure. The clinical findings show, that reconstruction of distal radioulnar ligaments according to Adams in patients with DRUJ instability and no repairable parts of TFCC, do not allow to re-stabilize the DRUJ in all patients. There is a need for further investigations trying to re-stabilize the DRUJ.

Reconstruction of the Distal Radioulnar Ligaments According to Adams: Surgical Technique - A Video

This paper describes the surgical technique to reconstruct the distal radioulnar ligaments using the palmaris longus tendon as inaugurated by Brian Adams. A video can be approach online.

Immunohistochemical Mapping of Sensory Nerve Endings in the Human Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex.

The triangular fibrocartilage complex is the main stabilizer of the distal radioulnar joint. While static joint stability is constituted by osseous and ligamentous integrity, the dynamic aspects of joint stability chiefly concern proprioceptive control of the compressive and directional muscular forces acting on the joint. Therefore, an investigation of the pattern and types of sensory nerve endings gives more insight in dynamic distal radioulnar joint stability. We aimed to (1) analyze the general distribution of sensory nerve endings and blood vessels; (2) examine interstructural distribution of sensory nerve endings and blood vessels; (3) compare the number and types of mechanoreceptors in each part; and (4) analyze intrastructural distribution of nerve endings at different tissue depth. The subsheath of the extensor carpi ulnaris tendon sheath, the ulnocarpal meniscoid, the articular disc, the dorsal and volar radioulnar ligaments, and the ulnolunate and ulnotriquetral ligaments were dissected from 11 human cadaver wrists. Sensory nerve endings were counted in five levels per specimen as total cell amount/cm(2) after staining with low-affinity neurotrophin receptor p75, protein gene product 9.5, and S-100 protein and thereafter classified according to Freeman and Wyke. All types of sensory corpuscles were found in the various structures of the triangular fibrocartilage complex with the exception of the ulnolunate ligament, which contained only Golgi-like endings, free nerve endings, and unclassifiable corpuscles. The articular disc had only free nerve endings. Furthermore, free nerve endings were the predominant sensory nerve ending (median, 72.6/cm(2); range, 0-469.4/cm(2)) and more prevalent than all other types of mechanoreceptors: Ruffini (median, 0; range, 0-5.6/cm(2); difference of medians, 72.6; p < 0.001), Pacini (median, 0; range, 0-3.8/cm(2); difference of medians, 72.6; p < 0.001), Golgi-like (median, 0; range, 0-2.1/cm(2); difference of medians, 72.6; p < 0.001), and unclassifiable corpuscles (median, 0; range, 0-2.5/cm(2); difference of medians, 72.6; p < 0.001). The articular disc contained fewer free nerve endings (median, 1.8; range, 0-17.8/cm(2)) and fewer blood vessels (median, 29.8; range, 0-112.2/cm(2); difference of medians: 255.9) than all other structures of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (p ≤ 0.001, respectively) except the ulnolunate ligament. More blood vessels were seen in the volar radioulnar ligament (median, 363.62; range, 117.8-871.8/cm(2)) compared with the ulnolunate ligament (median, 107.7; range, 15.9-410.3/cm(2); difference of medians: 255.91; p = 0.002) and the dorsal radioulnar ligament (median, 116.2; range, 53.9-185.1/cm(2); difference of medians: 247.47; p = 0.001). Free nerve endings were obtained in each structure more often than all other types of sensory nerve endings (p < 0.001, respectively). The intrastructural analysis revealed no differences in mechanoreceptor distribution in all investigated specimens with the numbers available, showing a homogenous distribution of proprioceptive qualities in all seven parts of the triangular fibrocartilage complex. Nociception has a primary proprioceptive role in the neuromuscular stability of the distal radioulnar joint. The articular disc and ulnolunate ligament rarely are innervated, which implies mainly mechanical functions, whereas all other structures have pronounced proprioceptive qualities, prerequisite for dynamic joint stability. Lesions of the volar and dorsal radioulnar ligaments have immense consequences not only for mechanical but also for dynamic stability of the distal radioulnar joint, and surgical reconstruction in instances of radioulnar ligament injury is important.

How I manage TFCC injuries

The TFCC consists of triangular fibrocartilage (TFC), meniscus homologue, ulnolunate ligament, ulnotriquetral ligament, radioulnar ligament, and sheath floor of the extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU). The TFCC functions as a stabilizer of the ulnocarpal and DRU joints, load distributor between ulna and ulnar carpus and introduces smooth forearm rotation. The TFCC is a hammock-like shape supporting and surrounding the ulnar carpus, with the strong and nearly vertical anchor to the ulnar fovea, i.e. the RUL. During forearm rotation, the radius, the carpus and distal surface of the TFCC rotate over the ulnar head, thus simple twisting of the RUL occurs at its foveal attachment. The main stabilizer of this tiny joint is the proximal component of the TFCC, the radioulnar ligament (RUL). Central attaching fibers of the RUL at the fovea indicate isometric pattern during forearm rotation, while eccentric fibers at the fovea and base of the styloid indicate changes in length, dorsal indicates longer length in pronation, while palmar indicates longer in supination. When the RUL is torn, instability of the DRUJ occurs. The greater the tear of the RUL be, the greater instability of the DRUJ indicates. When the RUL is ruptured at the fovea, the RUL must be introduced into the central lesion of the fovea of the ulna. Classical Palmer 1B peripheral lesion also demonstrates moderate DRUJ instability, because this lesion is close to the RUL. Other traumatic lesions on the TFCC, such as Palmer 1A and 1D tear, did not indicate DRUJ instability. Diagnosis of DRUJ instability due to TFCC tear is achieved by physical examination, such as DRUJ ballottement test, arthrogram, MRI and arthroscopy. Image diagnosis is useful, however arthroscopy is a gold standard for diagnosis as well as treatment of the TFCC lesions. DRUJ arthroscopy, recently introduced arthroscopic technique, provides direct visualization of fovea lesion, where the RUL attaches. Treatments of TFCC lesions are depending on the tear site. Palmer 1B lesion is easily treated by arthroscopic capsular repair. Debridement is useful for palmer 1A or 1D tear. We also prefer to shorten the ulna, when there were degenerative changes on the TFC (Palmer Class 2) or with ulnar positive variance. Treatment options for DRUJ instability due to TFCC foveal avulsion are arthroscopic and open repair of the TFCC to the fovea for acute or sub-acute cases and reconstruction of the TFCC using ECU half-slip tendon or PL tendon for chronic TFCC injuries. Ulnar shortening procedure can be useful for partial avulsion of the RUL either dorsal or palmar, but not for complete avulsion of the TFCC at the fovea. Arthroscopic partial resection of the TFCC can no longer indicated for unstable DRUJ, because it does not introduce stabilization of the DRUJ.

Effect of volar angulation of extra-articular distal radius fractures on distal radioulnar joint stability: a biomechanical study.

The relationship between increased volar tilt of the distal radius and distal radioulnar joint stability was examined. Distal radioulnar joint stiffness was recorded at 10° intervals from 10° dorsal angulation to 20° of volar angulation from the anatomical position of the radius. Tests were performed with the intact radioulnar ligament and repeated after partial and then complete sectioning of the radioulnar ligament at the ulnar fovea. With the intact radioulnar ligament, distal radioulnar joint stiffness increased significantly at 10° and 20° of volar angulation. Partial sectioning of the radioulnar ligament resulted in an approximate 10% decrease of distal radioulnar joint stiffness compared with the intact state, but distal radioulnar joint stiffness still increased significantly with greater volar tilt. Complete sectioning of the radioulnar ligament significantly decreased distal radioulnar joint stiffness, and increasing the volar tilt did not result in increased distal radioulnar joint stiffness. These results suggest that volar angulation deformities of the distal radius should be corrected to 10° of volar tilt when the triangular fibrocartilage complex is intact. Level of evidence: N/A.

Distal radioulnar joint instability: trans-osseous flexible stabilization using nylon tape

Introduction Distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability causes pain, dysfunction, and weak grip. Casting may cause joint stiffness and osteopenia and cannot guarantee stability. Surgery includes a direct or indirect radioulnar tether and radioulnar ligament reconstruction. We hypothesized that nylon tape provides a direct intrinsic tether, restores joint stability and forearm function, and avoids tendon harvest.

Triangular fibrocartilage complex injury accompanied by distal radius fracture

Triangular fibrocartilage complex injury accompanied by distal radius fracture

Biomechanical Study of Distal Radioulnar Joint (DRUJ) Ballottement Test

Introduction The distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) relies heavily on soft tissue support for stability, and dorsal and volar radioulnar ligaments are a primary stabilizer of the joint. Because of the inherently unstable and complicated soft tissue structures of the DRUJ, diagnosis and treatment of the joint instability remains a challenging problem. The instability is assessed by manual stress test in clinical hand surgery practice, but interpretation of the test is merely subjective. There is a lack of information regarding reliability and accuracy of DRUJ ballottement test. The purpose of this study was to investigate the intra- and inter-rater reliability and accuracy of the manual stress test with different techniques in intact and TFCC sectioned wrists using cadaver specimens.

Open repair of the triangular fibrocartilage complex from palmar aspect.

Background Although foveal tears of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) can be surgically reattached to the fovea via a dorsal approach, the foveal lesion is difficult to visualize from the dorsal side because the extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) sheath floor and the superficial dorsal limb of the radioulnar ligament hinders the view of the fovea. Materials and Methods Twenty-one patients with foveal tears were treated by an open repair method from the palmar aspect. Pain, instability, motion, and grip strength were evaluated after a mean follow-up period of 26 months, and each patient was rated according to the Mayo Modified Wrist Score (MMWS). Description of Technique A 4-cm skin incision is made on the palmar aspect of the ulnar fovea. The ulnar fovea is exposed through a transverse capsulotomy of the distal radioulnar joint. The distal aspect of the TFCC is also exposed between the ECU tendon sheath and the ulnotriquetral ligament. After curettage of the scar tissue in the fovea, the deep palmar and dorsal limbs of the TFCC are sutured back to the fovea using a suture anchor technique. Results Foveal TFCC tears could be repaired via a palmar surgical approach without violating the floor of the ECU tendon sheath and the superficial dorsal limb. Excellent results were achieved in 18 patients, and a good result was achieved in three. Conclusions Our result compared favorably with those reported for dorsal approach. The palmar surgical approach facilitates the inspection and repair of the TFCC foveal tears. Level of Evidence IV.

Deformation of the distal radioulnar ligament during rotation using finite element analysis

Deformation of the distal radioulnar ligament during rotation using finite element analysis

Computed Tomography Arthrography Using a Radial Plane View for the Detection of Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex Foveal Tears

To classify triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) foveal lesions on the basis of computed tomography (CT) arthrography using a radial plane view and to correlate the CT arthrography results with surgical findings. We also tested the interobserver and intra-observer reliability of the radial plane view. A total of 33 patients with a suspected TFCC foveal tear who had undergone wrist CT arthrography and subsequent surgical exploration were enrolled. We classified the configurations of TFCC foveal lesions into 5 types on the basis of CT arthrography with the radial plane view in which the image slices rotate clockwise centered on the ulnar styloid process. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive values were calculated for each type of foveal lesion in CT arthrography to detect foveal tears. We determined interobserver and intra-observer agreements using kappa statistics. We also compared accuracies with the radial plane views with those with the coronal plane views. Among the tear types on CT arthrography, type 3, a roundish defect at the fovea, and type 4, a large defect at the overall ulnar insertion, had high specificity and positive predictive value for the detection of foveal tears. Specificity and positive predictive values were 90% and 89% for type 3 and 100% and 100% for type 4, respectively, whereas sensitivity was 35% for type 3 and 22% for type 4. Interobserver and intra-observer agreement was substantial and almost perfect, respectively. The radial plane view identified foveal lesion of each palmar and dorsal radioulnar ligament separately, but accuracy results with the radial plane views were not statistically different from those with the coronal plane views. Computed tomography arthrography with a radial plane view exhibited enhanced specificity and positive predictive value when a type 3 or 4 lesion was identified in the detection of a TFCC foveal tear compared with historical controls. Diagnostic II.

All-Arthroscopic Knotless Suture Anchor Repair of Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex Fovea Tear by the 2-Portal Technique

After the importance of the deep fiber of the distal radioulnar ligament had been acknowledged, some repair techniques have been introduced. Because the knotless suture anchor does not cause any knot irritation and yields appropriate tension, it is a useful fixation material. All-arthroscopic knotless suture anchor repair of the triangular fibrocartilage complex fovea tear by a 2-portal technique is easier and less vulnerable to ulnar nerve injury than the original Geissler technique. Instead of the suture hook and accessory portal, this technique uses the always-sharp 18-gauge needle and percutaneous route. This change results in the repair of the complex fovea tear having the smallest possible remnant tissue. Repair of triangular fibrocartilage complex fovea tears combined type IB, ID, and IIC tears can reduce the chance of needing to perform distal radioulnar ligament reconstruction.

Anatomical transosseous fixation of the deep and superficial fibers of the radioulnar ligaments.

The triangular fibrocartilage complex is in conjunction with the interosseous membrane the most important stabilizer of the distal radioulnar joint. Lesions of the triangular fibrocartilage complex may cause instability of the distal radioulnar joint with serious consequences. Therefore, the goal is to reconstruct and provide stability to prevent further harm. Based on the anatomical configuration of the radioulnar ligaments, we present a technique which addresses both the deep and the superficial fibers of the radioulnar ligaments. This surgical procedure can be performed either openly or arthroscopically assisted. Two osseous 2-mm tunnels starting from the ulnar neck to the foveal surface are created. A nonabsorbable suture is passed through the tunnels and the triangular fibrocartilage using a 20-gauge venipuncture needle in order to attach the deep fibers. Then a third osseous tunnel starting from the lateral base of the styloid process to the medial aspect is created. The suture is passed through this tunnel and through the triangular fibrocartilage and around the styloid process palmarily using the same needle as before in order to anchor the superficial fibers anatomically. After reducing the ulna head the sutures are tightened. This technique is quite simple and addresses the anatomical configuration of the radioulnar ligaments.

Arthroscopy of the distal radioulnar joint.

Wrist arthroscopy is now widely indicated for diagnosis and treatment of acute or chronic wrist pain, especially for triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) lesions, as a gold standard. In most cases radiocarpal and midcarpal arthroscopy was performed, while DRUJ arthroscopy has been rarely performed because of its difficulties. Recent anatomic and biomechanical studies demonstrated that the radioulnar ligament (RUL), which is the proximal component of the TFCC facing to the DRUJ, is the primary stabilizer of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ). Rupture of the radioulnar ligament (RUL) at the fovea area, where it is the main attaching portion to the ulna and is the isometric point during forearm rotation as the rotation axis passes, is responsible for DRUJ instability. Although physical examination and imaging diagnosis may indicate a foveal detachment of the TFCC, DRUJ arthroscopy is potential for visualizing the RUL at the fovea. Role of DRUJ arthroscopy should be more important not only for diagnosis of rupture of the RUL but also for decision making of treatment option for RUL tear. DRUJ arthroscopy also demonstrates the joint surface of both the sigmoid notch and ulnar head, and the proximal surface of the TFCC.

Arthroscopic repair for ulnar-sided tears of the TFCC

Accurately performed anatomic and biomechanical studies as well as clinical experience during the last years have widened our knowledge about function and pathology of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) making a differentiated treatment possible. In cases of trauma a rupture of the ulnar part of the triangular fibrocartilaginous complex (TFCC) frequently occurs. An overview is given on the development of different arthroscopic techniques for repair and the state of the art is presented. The ulnar part of the TFCC is constituted of the superficial part which is less important for stability and the deep part which is anchored to the fovea of the ulnar head. This deep part is the most important stabiliser of the DRUJ. Each of these parts may rupture separately or both of them may rupture at the same time. Keystones for diagnosis are clinical examination and arthroscopy. On clinical examination instability of the DRUJ is to be evaluated by comparing it to the contralateral side. Furthermore, the degree of instability should be estimated. Extraarticular associated lesions must also be assessed clinically. On arthroscopy the TFCC may be evaluated from the radiocarpal joint as well as from its undersurface, from the DRUJ. In cases of avulsion from the fovea, an anatomic reconstruction with reinsertion of the deep part to the bone is indicated and may be performed successfully according to the published studies and our own experience. If a severe instability is found on clinical examination it is to be supposed that more stabilising structures - then only the radioulnar ligaments - are affected and reinsertion of the deep fibres to the fovea may not be sufficient.

Selection of Tendon Grafts for Distal Radioulnar Ligament Reconstruction and Report of a Modified Technique

To investigate the graft length necessary to complete a distal radioulnar ligament reconstruction and assess the suitability of several tendon graft sources. We measured the graft length needed to complete the distal radioulnar ligament reconstruction in 7 fresh-frozen cadaver specimens. The pure tendon lengths of 7 tendon graft sources were measured: palmaris longus, extensor indicis proprius, slips of extensor digiti minimi and abductor pollicis longus, and portions of flexor carpi ulnaris, flexor carpi radialis, and extensor carpi ulnaris. A modified technique that allows for a shorter length of graft is also described, and the suitability of each graft source for this technique was assessed. The mean graft lengths needed to complete the original and modified reconstructions were 138 mm and 89 mm, respectively. The average length of the tendon graft when measured as pure tendon was: palmaris longus (127 mm), slip of extensor digiti minimi (112mm), extensor indicis proprius (100 mm), partial flexor carpi radialis (87 mm), slip of abductor pollicis longus (69 mm), partial flexor carpi ulnaris (67 mm), and partial extensor carpi ulnaris (67 mm). The palmaris longus was too short for the original technique in the majority of specimens but was sufficient to complete the modified technique in every specimen that had a palmaris longus. Six specimens also had an extensor indicis proprius of suitable length for the modified technique. The length of donor graft required for the modified reconstruction was significantly less than that needed for the original reconstruction. Three specimens had no donor tendons sufficiently long to complete the original technique if a pure tendon graft were used, whereas the modified technique could be completed in all specimens. Many tendon graft sources in the upper extremity are of insufficient length to complete the distal radioulnar ligament reconstruction as described. A modified technique using suture anchors may be a useful alternative in such cases.

Effect of wrist position on distal radioulnar joint stability: a biomechanical study.

We investigated distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) stability in different wrist positions and examined the relative contribution of each ligamentous component of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) to DRUJ stability. We used nine fresh-frozen cadavers. The humerus and ulna were fixed at 90° elbow flexion. The radiocarpal unit was translated relative to the ulna in dorsopalmar directions with the wrist in five positions. Displacement of the unit was measured by an electromagnetic tracking device. Magnitudes of displacement were compared between different wrist positions in various sectioning stages: ulnocarpal ligament (UCL) sectioning, radioulnar ligaments (RUL) sectioning, and extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) floor sectioning. Wrist position and sectioning stage significantly influenced the displacement. In intact wrists, the displacement in wrist extension was significantly lower than that in neutral. However, after UCL sectioning, there were no longer any significant differences. After RUL sectioning, the displacement in radial deviation was significantly lower than that in neutral. Following ECU floor sectioning, there were no longer any significant differences. Thus, in intact wrists, DRUJ stability in wrist extension is likely due to tightening of the UCL. After complete RUL sectioning, DRUJ is stabilized in radial deviation due to tightening of the ECU floor.

Radiographic and Arthroscopic Assessment of DRUJ Instability Due to Foveal Avulsion of the Radioulnar Ligament in Distal Radius Fractures

Background As the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) anchors the distal radius to the ulna via the radioulnar ligament (RUL), a severely displaced distal fragment of the radius may be associated with a foveal avulsion of the TFCC. The purpose of this retrospective study was to assess, radiographically and arthroscopically, the relationship between displacement of the radius, the ulnar styloid, and avulsion of the RUL resulting in distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability. Materials and Methods Twenty-nine wrists of 29 patients with intra- and extra-articular distal radius fractures/malunion who underwent reduction or a corrective osteotomy of the displaced/malunited fracture, and/or wrist arthroscopy, were assessed radiographically and arthroscopically. Radial translation, radial inclination, radial shortening, volar or dorsal tilt, and the presence of an ulnar styloid fracture with more than 4 mm of displacement were measured from the initial films. Radiocarpal arthroscopy was used to assess peripheral lesions of the TFCC, while DRUJ arthroscopy was used to assess the foveal attachment. The relationship between displacement of the distal radius or the ulnar styloid fracture and the TFCC injury, including avulsion of the RUL, was recorded. Results Univariate analysis revealed that increased radial translation, decreased radial inclination, increased radial shortening, and an ulnar styloid fragment radially displaced by more than 4 mm were significant predictors of RUL avulsion at the fovea. Volar or dorsal tilt of the radius and ulnar variance did not correlate with RUL avulsion or TFCC injuries. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that radial translation was an independent risk factor of foveal avulsion of the RUL. Conclusions Increased radial translation and radial shortening and decreased radial inclination of the distal fragment can be associated with a foveal avulsion of the RUL. Radial translation can be an independent risk factor of foveal avulsion of the RUL.

Radiographic Predictors of DRUJ Instability with Distal Radius Fractures

Because the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) is an inherently unstable joint, the diagnosis and treatment of DRUJ instability is often difficult in a clinical hand surgery practice. Several soft tissue stabilizers are recognized, of which the deep limbs of the radioulnar ligament are primary stabilizers. This article discusses the predictors of DRUJ instability in distal radius fractures based on our clinical and biomechanical analyses.

Distal Oblique Bundle Reconstruction and Distal Radioulnar Joint Instability

Background This study created an anatomic reconstruction of the distal oblique bundle (DOB) of the interosseous membrane to determine its effect on distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability and compare this technique with distal radioulnar ligament (DRUL) reconstruction. Questions/Purposes We hypothesized that this reconstruction would provide equivalent stability to DRUL reconstruction and that combining the two techniques would enhance stability. Methods Six cadaveric upper limbs were affixed to a custom frame. The volar/dorsal translation of the radius relative to the ulna was measured in 60° pronation, neutral, and 60° supination. Translation was sequentially measured with the DRUJ intact, with sectioned DRULs and triangular fibrocartilaginous complex (TFCC), and with sectioned DOBs. Reconstructions were performed on the DRULs, on the DOB tensioned in both neutral and supination, and employing both techniques. Results The DOB reconstruction, tensioned both in the neutral position and in 60° supination, was more stable than the partial and complete instability in 6/6 specimens in pronation and the neutral position and in 5/6 specimens in supination. The DOB reconstruction and the DOB reconstruction tensioned in supination were more stable than the DRUL reconstruction in 4/6 patients. Combining the two techniques did not further reduce translation. Conclusions The DOB reconstruction is capable of improving stability in the unstable DRUJ.