[Radiocarpal dislocation (about nine cases)]

Radiocarpal dislocation is an uncommon entity in traumatolgy. The purpose of this study was to detail the pathogenesis of radiocarpal dislocation and describe its complications and treatment. Nine radiocarpal dislocations were reviewed retrospectively. Dorsal displacement was observed for seven dislocations, anterior displacement for two dislocations. All were associated with fractures of the radial styloid. Treatment was always surgical. At last follow-up (mean 3 years), the overall functional outcome was satisfactory. The Green and O'Brien (modified by Cooney) score was excellent for three patients, fair for four, and mediocre for two. Two cases of radiocarpal degeneration were observed at last follow-up. Intracarpal and/or distal radio-ulnar lesions must be stabilized in order to limit the risk of future degeneration.