Ulnar Styloid Malunion with Dislocation of the Distal Radioulnar Joint

Abstract

Four patients with dorsal dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint and ulnar styloid malunion had corrective osteotomy of the ulnar styloid. Dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint was reduced in three of four patients. Subluxation persisted in the remaining patient. Wrist function improved in all patients. These results support the contention that a displaced ulnar styloid fracture with distal radioulnar joint dislocation should be reduced and internally fixed. Corrective osteotomy is recommended for malunion of the ulnar styloid associated with dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint.