The "wafer" procedure. Partial distal ulnar resection.

Abstract

A technique of partial resection of the distal ulna ("wafer" procedure) for the treatment of patients with symptomatic tears of the triangular fibrocartilage complex or mild ulnar impaction syndrome or both is described. The distal 2-4 mm of the distal ulna is resected while preserving the distal radioulnar joint and the styloid process of the ulna and the ligaments attached to it. The triangular fibrocartilage can be debrided, repaired, or partially excised. The wafer procedure has several advantages and avoids some of the potential complications of other treatment methods.