The Gymnast’s Wrist: Acquired Positive Ulnar Variance Following Chronic Epiphyseal Injury

Abstract

Five cases of symptomatic acquired positive ulnar variance are described. All cases occurred due to premature physeal closure of the growth plate in teenage girl gymnasts. All cases demonstrated ulno-carpal impingement, for which we describe a clinical test. Arthroscopic assessment of the wrist allowed us to assess the integrity of the TFCC (triangular fibrocartilaginous complex) and decide on the most appropriate surgery. Two patients needed distal ulna recession and one needed shaving for a TFCC perforation, with a good result.