Radiocarpal Dislocation With Isolated Ulnar Translocation: Case Report and Review of the Literature

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Trauma Surgery
• Radiocarpal Joint Biomechanics

Background:

• Traumatic radiocarpal dislocations are uncommon but indicate severe wrist instability.
• High-energy wrist trauma necessitates a high index of suspicion for radiocarpal instability.
• Global ligamentous disruption can cause the carpus to shift ulnarly, following the radial inclination.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a unique case of pure ulnar translocation radiocarpal dislocation.
• To describe the management of this rare injury in a patient with a hypoplastic ulna.
• To highlight the successful surgical outcome and functional recovery.

Main Methods:

• Case presentation of a 33-year-old male with ulnar translocation radiocarpal dislocation and a hypoplastic ulna.
• Surgical management involved open reduction internal fixation and ligamentous repair.
• A combined volar and dorsal approach to the wrist was utilized.
• Postoperative immobilization for 12 weeks followed by K-wire removal and physical therapy.

Main Results:

• The patient achieved full range of motion at 6 months post-injury.
• No functional concerns or pain were reported in the operative limb.
• The surgical intervention and rehabilitation protocol were effective.

Conclusions:

• Pure ulnar translocation radiocarpal dislocation in the context of a hypoplastic ulna is a previously undescribed injury pattern.
• Successful management can be achieved with open reduction, internal fixation, and ligamentous repair.
• This case underscores the importance of considering rare variants in radiocarpal dislocations following high-energy trauma.