Total distal radioulnar joint arthroplasty in adults with symptomatic Madelung's deformity

Madelung's deformity is a well-known congenital anomaly of the wrist. A number of procedures have been described to correct the deformity and thus improve function at the wrist. Most of these procedures have to a large extent addressed the alignment and consequent function of the radiocarpal joint but not the persistent problem of painful stiffness at the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ). The availability of a total DRUJ prosthesis appears to provide a solution to this problem. This article discusses our early experience with total DRUJ arthroplasty using the Scheker prosthesis for managing pain and decreased range of motion in three adult patients with symptomatic Madelung's deformity.