[Dorsal instability of the ulnar stump following distal resection: hemi extensor-carpi-ulnaris stabilization...

Dorsal instability of the ulnar stump may be a complication of Darrach and Sauve-Kapandji procedures. Stabilizing procedures are numerous using flexor carpi ulnaris, extensor carpi ulnaris tendons or a combination of both tendons, the palmaris longus, and even synthetic or free grafts. The authors report nine cases of ulnar stump instability, five times post-traumatic and four as a result of rheumatoid arthritis. A tenodesis using a strip half of the extensor carpi ulnaris was performed in all these patients. Post-operatively eight patients were pain-free with in one case occasional pain after heavy work. All stumps were clinically stable. Forearm rotation and grip strength were maintained. Radiological dorsal ulnar subluxation was always reduced. Treatment of these instabilities should be preventive. When dorsal instability of the ulnar stump occurs, the half strip extensor carpi ulnaris tenodesis provides consistent satisfactory results in both arthritic and post-traumatic-related instability.