Arthroscopic Treatment of Traumatic Isolated Volar Dislocation of the Distal Radioulnar Joint: Case Report and Management Proposal

Abstract

Background Traumatic isolated dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) has always been an injury recognized for its rarity, misdiagnosis, and possibility of inability to be reduced at emergency care. As a result, little has been discussed so far about the guidelines and routines for its treatment.

It is known that some degree of injury to the triangular fibrocartilage (TFC) is required for a DRUJ to be dislocated. However, there is no evidence to prove that this injury will cause any degree of DRUJ instability following reduction.

Materials and Methods We show a case of a patient with traumatic isolated volar dislocation of the DRUJ in which, after failure in the attempt to reduce it in the emergency room, surgical treatment was performed using an arthroscopic method.

Results Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging axial sections showed the impaction of the distal ulna, with its groove to the extensor carpi ulnaris tendon blocked in the anterior labrum of the sigmoid notch of the radius. Arthroscopy before reduction showed that the distal portion of the TFC was intact, with damage to the foveal insertion (Palmer Type 1B, Atzei Class 3). After joint reduction, a loop-shaped repair of the TFC foveal lesion was performed through the central disc and attached to the distal ulna footprint. The patient presented good progression, with quick recovery, and no serious complications or the need for a second surery.

Conclusion We indicate the use of arthroscopy in patients with irreducible isolated volar dislocation, with subacute or chronic presentation, who have to be managed in the operating room. It is a useful method for diagnosing and repairing the TFC injury. This will prevent possible complications and provide faster recovery, mainly reducing the time of immobilization.

Keywords

wrist arthroscopy - trauma - distal radioulnar joint - distal ulna - dislocation - triangular fibrocartilage complex - TFCC

Work carried out at the Orthopedics Service of Complexo Hospitalar Santa Casa de Porto Alegre.

Publication History

Received: 16 August 2023

Accepted: 12 December 2023

Article published online:
22 January 2024

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