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Traumatic Transposition of the Ulnar Nerve Through the Distal Radioulnar Joint: A Case Report
William Pientka1, Skyler Hoelscher, Christopher Bates
1Department of Orthopaedics, John Peter Smith Hospital, Fort Worth, Texas.
JBJS Case Connector
|January 12, 2022
Summary
A rare case of ulnar nerve translocation through the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) occurred after a distal radius fracture. This condition can cause ulnar nerve palsy and intrinsic hand weakness, requiring surgical repair.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Nerve Surgery
- Traumatology
Background:
- Distal radius fractures are common orthopedic injuries.
- Dislocations of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) can occur with distal radius fractures.
- Ulnar nerve involvement is a potential complication.
Observation:
- A 27-year-old female presented with an open distal radius fracture and DRUJ dislocation.
- Postoperatively, she developed ulnar nerve palsy with intrinsic hand weakness.
- Intraoperative findings revealed ulnar nerve translocation through the DRUJ.
Findings:
- The ulnar nerve was found to be translocated and narrowed within the DRUJ.
- Resection and grafting of the ulnar nerve were performed.
- This case highlights a rare complication of DRUJ dislocation.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider ulnar nerve translocation in cases of DRUJ dislocation with neurological deficits.
- Early recognition and surgical intervention are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- This case expands the understanding of ulnar nerve injuries in distal radius fractures.
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