J Wrist Surg 2014; 03(01): 018-021
DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1364093
Special Focus Section: Radial Translation of Distal Radius Fractures
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Influence of Ulnar Translation of the Radial Shaft in Distal Radius Fracture on Distal Radioulnar Joint Instability

Hisao Moritomo
1   Osaka Yukioka College of Health Science, Yukioka Hospital Hand Center, Osaka, Japan
,
Shinsuke Omori
2   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
12 February 2014 (online)

Preview

Abstract

It has been reported that the distal interosseous membrane (DIOM) of the forearm constrains the dorsal dislocation of the distal radius. A residual ulnar translation deformity of the radial shaft in distal radius fractures has the potential to cause distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability when triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injury is also present, because it may result in detensioning of the DIOM. Correction of ulnar translation of the radial shaft is critical because it restores DIOM tension, which then firmly holds the ulnar head in the concavity of the sigmoid notch.