Acute irreducible volar distal radioulnar joint dislocation treated with open reduction through dual approaches: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Acute dislocation of distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) is a rare pathology. Most cases were managed with closed reduction, and few patients required open reduction through dorsal or volar approaches. We describe a patient who required open reduction using dual approaches.

Case presentation: This paper reported a case of acute DRUJ volar dislocation that failed closed reduction. Open reduction was tried using a dorsal approach which failed to achieve joint reduction. A second volar approach to release volar joint capsule had only achieved joint reduction.

Discussion and conclusion: This case report highlighted the importance of open reduction when treating acute DRUJ injuries that failed closed reduction. We strongly recommend that surgeons should be ready to utilize dual approaches for this injury and to appraise patients about this possibility.

Keywords: Distal radioulnar joint dislocation.