Clinical and radiological results of distal radioulnar joint arthroplasty with the Aptis prosthesis

Abstract

We report the results of the treatment of disorders of the distal radioulnar joint with the semi-constrained Aptis prosthesis. Nineteen patients were assessed at a mean follow-up of 7 years. All patients had been operated on previously at the wrist, forearm or elbow. The Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand score had a mean value of 40, the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation score had a mean of 49 and the visual analogue scale for pain had a mean of 3.9. The mean ranges of pronation, supination, wrist flexion and wrist extension were 78°, 76°, 60° and 51°, respectively. The mean grip strength was 23 kg. Complications were noted in ten patients. Eighteen patients would undergo the operation again. The 10-year cumulative survival rate was 84%. The Aptis prosthesis may be a solution to treat patients in whom previous surgery at the distal radioulnar joint has failed. Level of evidence: IV