Dorsal dislocation of the ulnar styloid and extensor carpi ulnaris tendon into the distal radioulnar joint: the empty sulcus sign

J Hand Surg Am. 1987 Nov;12(6):1029-32. doi: 10.1016/s0363-5023(87)80104-1.

Abstract

Two cases of distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) disruption and diastasis secondary to distal radial fractures were associated with displacement of the ulnar styloid and extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) into the DRUJ. Both cases had a palpable empty ECU tendon sulcus. In one case surgical exploration revealed that the ulnar styloid, triangular fibrocartilage, and extensor carpi ulnaris tendon had dislocated into the DRUJ as a unit. The end result was good. In the second case lack of recognition and reduction of the ECU tendon and ulnar styloid led to persistent subluxation and diastasis. The end result was poor. Early recognition of the dislocation of the ulnar and ECU into the DRUJ and their significance may avoid poor results.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Female
  • Fracture Fixation, Internal / methods*
  • Fractures, Open / surgery
  • Humans
  • Joint Dislocations / diagnostic imaging
  • Joint Dislocations / surgery*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Postoperative Complications / diagnostic imaging
  • Radiography
  • Radius Fractures / diagnostic imaging
  • Radius Fractures / surgery*
  • Tendon Injuries / diagnostic imaging
  • Tendon Injuries / surgery*
  • Ulna Fractures / diagnostic imaging
  • Ulna Fractures / surgery*
  • Wound Healing
  • Wrist Injuries / diagnostic imaging
  • Wrist Injuries / surgery*