Complications of Semiconstrained Distal Radioulnar Joint Arthroplasty

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Biomaterials and implants

Background:

• Distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) arthritis and instability often require surgical intervention.
• Semiconstrained prostheses, such as the Aptis total DRUJ prosthesis, are utilized for treatment.
• Limited data exists on the short-term complication rates of these specific implants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the short-term complications associated with the Aptis total distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) prosthesis.
• To evaluate the need for subsequent surgical procedures following implantation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of patients who underwent semiconstrained DRUJ arthroplasty.
• Data collected from 2007 to 2015 at a single institution.
• Analysis of complications and re-operation rates.

Main Results:

• 52 semiconstrained DRUJ arthroplasties were performed by two senior hand surgeons.
• 19 complications requiring operative management occurred in 15 patients (29%).
• Common complications included periprosthetic fractures (4), infections (3), aseptic loosening (2), and implant component failures (2).
• Revision surgery was needed for 6% of implants, and 4% were explanted, with deep infection being a cause in 6% of cases.

Conclusions:

• The Aptis total DRUJ prosthesis demonstrated a higher complication rate (29%) requiring further surgery compared to previous literature (0-5% revisions).
• Periprosthetic fracture and infection were the primary drivers of re-operation.
• Further investigation into the long-term outcomes and risk factors for complications is warranted.