Reconstruction of the distal radius using ulnar translocation with ulnoscapholunate arthrodesis after giant cell tumour resection.

Abstract

We evaluated the outcomes of ulnar translocation with T-locking plate fixation and ulnoscapholunate arthrodesis after distal radius resection for giant cell tumours. Eighteen patients (median age 33 years) were included, with a median follow-up of 72 months. The mean Musculoskeletal Tumour Society score was 27, demonstrating excellent function in all patients. The mean grip strength was 82% of the opposite hand. Supination and pronation were 77° and 76°, respectively. Wrist flexion and extension averaged 23° and 21°, respectively. The mean radial and ulnar deviations were 21° and 15°, respectively. Ulnoscapholunate union occurred in all patients within 3 months of surgery. Radioulnar union occurred in 17 patients within a mean of 4 months. One patient required revision surgery owing to plate breakage and radioulnar nonunion. Two patients had local recurrences. These results suggest that ulnar translocation is a reliable reconstruction method for giant cell tumour resection in the distal radius.<b>Level of evidence:</b> IV.