Autologous osteoarticular transfer from the proximal tibiofibular joint to the scaphoid and lunate facets in the treatment of severe distal radial fractures: a report of two cases.

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the appropriateness of using the articular cartilaginous surfaces of the proximal tibiofibular joint to resurface damaged distal radial articular surfaces and to assess the clinical results in the first 2 patients. Cadaveric specimens of the facets of the proximal tibiofibular joints and distal radius were sized and compared. Two patients underwent transfer of a fibular facet. The surface area of each of the proximal tibiofibular facets were larger than either the scaphoid or lunate facets of the distal radius. The 2 patients had excellent clinical results with minimal donor morbidity. Use of the articular surfaces from the proximal tibiofibular joint to replace damaged distal radial facets is possible and can be accomplished with excellent results and minimal morbidity.