Closed Reduction of an Acute Volar Dislocation of the Distal Radio-Ulnar Joint by a Modified Technique

Abstract EN

There is scarce literature describing treatment of volar dislocation of the distal radio-ulnar joint (DRUJ).

Irreducible dislocation is usually treated surgically.

We present the case of a 37-year-old male with acute right wrist pain and loss of pronation.

A diagnosis of volar DRUJ dislocation was made.

Reduction using conventional technique was unsuccessful.

A second attempt was successful by applying pressure over the interosseous membrane of the forearm and manipulating the ulnar head.

At three weeks, the patient had minimal pain, a stable DRUJ, and near complete range of motion.

This modified technique for reduction of a locked anterior DRUJ dislocation can be used to avoid an unnecessary surgical intervention.