Generating Differential Ligamentotaxis Across the Radiocarpal Joint.

This study sought to determine if traction through the index or long finger metacarpal provided a selective distraction force through either the distal radius' radial or ulnar column. In eight specimens, the radius was cut transversely 1 cm proximal to the Lister tubercle. Index and long finger metacarpals were cut and two-hole plates were fixed to metacarpals. Traction forces were alternately applied to index, then long finger metacarpals, sequentially through each metacarpal from 4.5N to 89N. Traction loading through the index finger metacarpal resulted in significantly more distraction force transmitted through the distal radius fragment's radial column at all force intervals. Traction loading through long finger metacarpal resulted in significantly higher force transmission through distal radius' ulnar column. In both cohorts, force transmission increased linearly in response to higher loads. Selective traction force of either the index or long finger metacarpal resulted in differential tensioning of the distal radius' ulnar and radial columns. (Journal of Surgical Orthopaedic Advances 28(2):104-107, 2019).

Instability and Arthritis of the Distal Radioulnar Joint: A Critical Analysis Review.

Arthritis and instability represent 2 of the most common pathological processes affecting the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ). These conditions can present in isolation or as components of a multifactorial process. Nonoperative treatment is indicated for most acute injuries to the DRUJ. The joint should be immobilized in a position of stability to allow for ligament healing. Likewise, early arthritis responds favorably to rest, immobilization, corticosteroids, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). When DRUJ instability is refractory to nonoperative measures, native ligament repair is the preferable method of treatment. When this method is not possible, anatomical reconstruction of the distal radioulnar ligaments should be performed. For advanced DRUJ arthritis Darrach resection should be reserved for the elderly, low-demand patient. The Sauve-Kapandji procedure allows for arthrodesis of the DRUJ while maintaining forearm rotation and a stable base for the ulnar carpus. DRUJ hemiarthroplasty procedures have been associated with favorable preliminary results. These implants attempt to reproduce native biomechanics and may be used in lieu of or as a salvage procedure after resection arthroplasty. DRUJ arthroplasty should be used as a salvage procedure.

Radiographic evaluation of the modified Brunelli technique versus the Blatt capsulodesis for scapholunate dissociation in a cadaver model.

PURPOSE: A variety of soft tissue surgical procedures have been developed for treatment of scapholunate (SL) dissociation. The purpose of this study was to compare the degree of correction obtained (as measured on preoperative and postoperative radiographs) when performing the modified Brunelli technique (MBT) with that of the more commonly performed Blatt capsulodesis (BC) and to evaluate each technique after simulated wrist motion. METHODS: Five cadaver wrists were used for this study. The SL interval, SL angle, and radiolunate angle were recorded radiographically, with the SL ligament intact, for each wrist in several loaded positions: neutral, flexion, extension, radial deviation, ulnar deviation, and clenched fist. The SL interosseous ligament was then completely incised, and the radiographic measurements were repeated to demonstrate SL instability. The radiographic measurements were then repeated after MBT reconstruction and after BC reconstruction. Additional radiographic measurements were taken after simulated wrist motion. RESULTS: Sectioning of the SL ligament resulted in radiographic evidence of SL dissociation. Use of the MBT demonstrated improved correction of the SL interval and the SL angle in the clenched fist position, which was statistically significant when compared with BC. The correction for the SL angle was maintained on the MBT specimens with simulated wrist motion. CONCLUSIONS: The results demonstrate that in this cadaver model, the MBT better restores the normal carpal relationship of the SL interval and SL angle when compared to the BC, as measured on radiographs. This correction might correlate with improved carpal dynamics and improved clinical outcomes.

Are standardized patient self-reporting instruments applicable to the evaluation of ulnar neuropathy at the elbow?

BACKGROUND: This study attempts to confirm that the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) Outcome Measure self-administered questionnaire is valid specifically for ulnar neuropathy at the elbow. Validity of the Levine-Katz questionnaire for ulnar neuropathology compared with DASH was also studied. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-eight patients with isolated ulnar nerve surgery completed a 6-month evaluation. Patients were assigned a clinical stage. The DASH and Levine-Katz questionnaires were administered, and pinch and grip strength were measured preoperatively and postoperatively. Levine-Katz questionnaires were correlated with DASH to establish criterion validity. Construct validity was tested by determining a relationship between scores and clinical stages and by comparing scores preoperatively and postoperatively. RESULTS: There was a high correlation between DASH scores and symptom severity and functional status. Although correlations were significant between DASH and biomechanical measures, correlation coefficients were lower. Postoperatively, all measures improved significantly. CONCLUSION: This study confirms that scores on the DASH questionnaire reflect the clinical staging of ulnar neuropathy at the elbow.

Clinical application of advances in elbow and forearm anatomy and biomechanics.

The static and dynamic stabilizers of the elbow and forearm axis are closely interrelated in elbow and forearm unit motion and load handling. An [figure: see text] understanding of elbow and forearm anatomy is crucial to the surgeon evaluating and treating complex pathologies resulting from acute or remote trauma.