Dacron stabilization of the distal ulna

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Musculoskeletal Research

Background:

• Chronic symptomatic dorsal translation of the distal ulna in pronation presents a treatment challenge.
• Existing treatments may involve complex tendon grafts or fascia lata.
• A simplified alternative for radioulnar tether construction is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the pronator lock procedure as an alternative treatment for distal radioulnar instability.
• To evaluate the utility of a porous Dacron tendon as an adjunct in creating a radioulnar tether.
• To assess the potential of this method to obviate the need for traditional grafts.

Main Methods:

• The study describes the pronator lock procedure.
• It details the use of a porous Dacron tendon for radioulnar tether construction.
• Clinical and biomechanical evaluations of the technique and material are noted as ongoing.

Main Results:

• The porous Dacron tendon serves as a useful adjunct in the pronator lock procedure.
• This material has obviated the need for free tendon grafts, intact tendon slips, or fascia lata.
• The technique offers a simplified approach to radioulnar tether construction.

Conclusions:

• The pronator lock procedure is a viable alternative for treating chronic distal radioulnar instability.
• Porous Dacron tendon is an effective material for radioulnar tether construction.
• Further clinical and biomechanical investigation is warranted to fully establish the technique's efficacy.