Introduction and Early Outcomes of Intraosseous Distal Radioulnar Joint Prosthesis: A Pilot Study and a Technique on a New Design of the Sauvé-Kapandji Procedure

Background: Different surgical procedures have been proposed for the treatment of Distal Radioulnar Joint (DRUJ) arthrosis and other conditions. This study aimed to introduce a new design of DRUJ prosthesis based on the Sauvé-Kapandji procedure followed by the evaluation of its short-term results. Darrach and Sauvé-Kapandji techniques are two well-known salvage procedures. Various implant designs have been proposed for DRUJ substitution to avoid the disadvantages of these procedures. Methods: Before and after the insertion of the intraosseous DRUJ prosthesis in five patients, indices, such as the range of motion, as well as grip and pinch strengths were measured and recorded. Moreover, the patients were asked to complete three questionnaires (i.e., Quick-Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand; Visual Analogue Scale-Pain; and Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation). Results: The patients were followed up for 27.6 months. It is worth mentioning that all patients completed the follow-up period with no complication, except for one case who came with dislocation secondary to forearm malunio‎n and proximal forearm impingement. According to the results, there were improvements in all indices, compared to pre- operation. Conclusion: The intraosseous distal radioulnar prosthesis can be an alternative option for the replacement of DRUJ.