Radial notch labralization for proximal radioulnar joint dysplasia

Chronic posterior subluxation or dislocation of the radial head is uncommon and difficult to treat. To restore radiocapitellar alignment, procedures such as deepening of the notch using a high-speed burr have been described, but they can result in cartilage damage. We hypothesized that a radial notch labralization using soft tissue could improve radiocapitellar tracking without violating the joint surface.

A radial notch labralization was performed in 3 patients with chronic posterior subluxation of the radial head and developmental dysplasia of the radial notch in the setting of complex recurrent instability of the elbow. A soft tissue graft (typically a portion of an allograft hamstring tendon) was used to create a meniscus-like bumper posteriorly, thereby deepening the radial notch and reducing its radius of curvature. A corrective anterior opening wedge ulnar osteotomy was also performed to realign the radial head with the capitellum.

At a mean follow-up of 32 months, all 3 patients were pain free and had maintained a stable joint, with a functional range of motion. Each patient gave a rating of either "Greatly Improved" or "Almost Normal" on the Summary Outcome Determination scale. Radiographs performed during the last follow-up showed improved radiocapitellar alignment.

Chronic posterior subluxation or dislocation of the radial head can occur subsequent to developmental joint changes. The radial notch labralization using a soft tissue graft associated with a corrective ulnar osteotomy was successful in restoring radial head stability and avoiding cartilage damage.