Distal Radioulnar Joint Instability in Distal Radius Fracture.

Abstract

Distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability following distal radius fracture (DRF) is an increasingly recognised entity, particularly with recent advances in the management of DRF. This review aims to provide a comprehensive appraisal of DRUJ anatomy, methods of assessing instability and current treatment strategies. Both non-operative and operative modalities are considered. In the acute setting, surgical management primarily involves open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of the distal radius, which can restore DRUJ stability through correction of translation and distraction of the distal fragment. Management of concomitant injuries, such as ulnar styloid fractures and triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) tears, are also addressed, particularly in cases where instability persists following DRF fixation. In the chronic setting, DRUJ instability is categorised according to underlying pathology: bony abnormalities (including distal radius malunion and ulnar styloid nonunion) and soft-tissue insufficiency (notably TFCC tears). Finally, attention is drawn to associated conditions - such as DRUJ subluxation and stiffness - which may complicate management or remain underrecognised in clinical practice. Level of Evidence: Level V (Therapeutic).