title: Surgical approaches to the distal radioulnar joint.
abstract: The distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) is classified as a uniaxial synovial pivot joint between the convex head of the ulna and the concave ulnar notch of the radius. The DRUJ can be approached from 3 sides with a refined dorsal approach retaining a robust retinacular-dorsal capsular layer preferred by most surgeons. Recent descriptions of safe and extensile volar approaches have broadened indications for a volar approach to the DRUJ. A subcutaneous ulnar approach remains an option particularly when dealing with additional distal ulnar pathology. A description of technique and review of the surgical experience in exposure and treatment of DRUJ pathology will be presented, with advantages, disadvantages, and authors' preferred techniques.
authors.affiliation: Modbury Public Hospital, Modbury, and University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia. greg@gregbain.com.au
authors.forename: Gregory I
authors.initials: GI
authors.lastname: Bain
authors.forename: Nicholas
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Pourgiezis
authors.forename: James H
authors.initials: JH
authors.lastname: Roth
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D011885:Radius Fractures / Q000601:surgery; D014458:Ulna Fractures / Q000601:surgery; D014954:Wrist Injuries / Q000601:surgery; D014955:Wrist Joint / Q000601:surgery*