Salvage Operation for a Failed Total Wrist Prosthesis and Darrach Procedure by Total Wrist Revision and Distal Radioulnar Joint Arthroplasty

Clinical Results of Patients with Combined Aptis Distal Radioulnar Joint Arthroplasty and Total Wrist Arthroplasty

Background  Severely destroyed wrists can be managed by combined radiocarpal and distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) replacement that reduces pain while mobility is ought to be reserved. The combination of these arthroplasties is rarely reported in the literature. Purpose  This article describes the clinical outcomes of six consecutive patients with both total wrist and Aptis DRUJ arthroplasty with a median follow-up of 50 months (range: 18-108 months). Patients and Methods  Patients with a TWA combined with an Aptis DRUJ arthroplasty were retrospectively identified. The patients were treated between 2011 and 2020. Results  The flexion-extension arc was slightly decreased in three cases while forearm rotation was improved in three patients. Pain was adequately reduced in four patients and significant pain was seen in two patients. Although three of four patients could not return to previous work, all patients claimed to be satisfied with the result of the procedure. Conclusion  This article demonstrates the possible feasibility of this combined arthroplasty in patients with a destroyed and unstable wrist. Level of Evidence  Level III.