Ulnocarpal abutment: State of the art and the role of arthroscopy

Abstract

Ulnocarpal abutment is the inversion of the distal radioulnar index with a positive ulnar variance (long ulna) and is most frequently secondary to distal radius fractures. The relative “shortening of the radius” leads to a conflict between the ulnar head and the proximal lunate (Fig. 13.1). The natural evolution of this condition is usually a central perforation of the TFCC. This lesion eventually leads to arthritis of the medial proximal lunate as well as that of the ulnar head. Persistence of the abutment may further lead to lunotriquetral dissociation (Fig. 13.2a–c).