Distal Radioulnar Joint Instability

Abstract

Summary: The distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) is vital to the stability and function of the wrist and forearm. The osseous morphology is variable and provides little stability. A complex of confluent soft tissues is the primary stabilizer; however, the contribution of each component has yet to be elucidated. It has become increasingly clear that the anatomic fixation of distal radius fractures restores DRUJ stability, obviating the need for additional DRUJ stabilization. This review will describe the anatomy and biomechanics of the DRUJ and discuss injury patterns, treatments, and clinical results.