Three cases of chronic volar dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint that were treated with the Sauvé-Kapandji procedure

Abstract

Three cases of chronic volar dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint were treated with the Sauvé-Kapandji procedure. All patients were in their twenties. They visited our clinic complaining limitation of forearm wrist rotation and pain around the wrist for more than 6 weeks after an injury. Radiograph and CT scan revealed chronic volar dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint. Closed reduction failed. The Sauvé-Kapandji procedure was required to prevent the distal radioulnar joint from becoming unstable after open reduction. Range of motion of the injured wrist improved greatly, pain disappeared and they were able to return to sports after the operation and rehabilitation. Therefore, the Sauvé-Kapandji procedure is effective in curing chronic volar dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint.