Interosseous Membrane Reconstruction Utilizing Flexor Digitorum Superficialis Autograft.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Biomechanical reconstruction
• Upper extremity anatomy

Background:

• Deficiency of the interosseous membrane (IOM) leads to radioulnar instability.
• Consequences include proximal radial migration, altered radiocapitellar contact, restricted forearm rotation, and ulnar-sided pain.
• Existing reconstruction methods have limitations or are not widely used in practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel 2-bundle interosseous membrane reconstruction technique.
• To evaluate the feasibility and long-term efficacy of this method using flexor digitorum superficialis autograft.
• To present clinical outcomes following cadaveric feasibility studies.

Main Methods:

• A 2-bundle reconstruction of the interosseous membrane was performed.
• Flexor digitorum superficialis autograft was utilized for reconstruction.
• The technique was validated through cadaveric studies and long-term patient follow-up.

Main Results:

• The described technique utilizes a robust, locally available autograft with minimal donor-site morbidity.
• The method replicates the non-isometric properties of the native interosseous membrane.
• Long-term clinical results from a patient treated with this method are presented.

Conclusions:

• The 2-bundle interosseous membrane reconstruction with flexor digitorum superficialis autograft is a viable and effective technique.
• This method addresses limitations of previous approaches, offering a robust solution for radioulnar instability.
• The technique shows promise for restoring forearm function and alleviating pain associated with IOM deficiency.