[The Sauvé-Kapandji operation. Indications and results]

The Sauvé-Kapandji procedure consists of an arthrodesis of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) in combination with an intentional pseudarthrosis of the distal ulna. In addition to other methods, the Sauvé-Kapandji operation is a salvage procedure of for chronic disorders of DRUJ. Different studies have confirmed that this procedure results in a pain reduction of between 73 and 100% and that patient' satisfaction lies between 68 and 100%. A reliable improvement of rotation of the forearm of between 134 and 171 degrees can be expected. On the other hand, a decrease in grip strength on the affected side is usual. The potential problem of instability of the proximal ulna stump can be avoided by performing a short distal segment and a narrow pseudarthrosis gap. The Sauvé-Kapandji procedure is a reliable salvage procedure resulting in high patient satisfaction and a reliable improvement in range of motion.