Stability of the distal radioulnar joint before and after corrective osteotomy of the distal radius.

Malunion of the distal radius with dorsal angulation reduces stability of the distal radioulnar joint. The aim of the study was to sonographically quantify the stability of the distal radioulnar joint in 20 patients following corrective osteotomy of the distal radius and to investigate the subjective and clinical results preoperatively, three and twelve months postoperatively. Sonographically measured dorsovolar ulnar head translation relative to the distal radius was significantly higher (3.6 mm) preoperatively compared to 2.9 mm three months postoperatively. Twelve months postoperatively the result was 3.2 mm, equal to the contralateral side (3.2 mm). Pain, Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire and Patient-Reported Wrist Evaluations, wrist flexion, radial and ulnar inclination, grip strength and pronation and supination torque improved significantly. Corrective osteotomy of the distal radius shows good subjective and clinical results and improves sonographically measured distal radioulnar joint stability. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.