Here we will be demonstrating resection of the distal ulna. The procedure was described as early as the 1600s, but is commonly referred to as the Darrach procedure after William Darrach described its use in the treatment of a posttraumatic, volar dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint in 1912 and 1913. Resection of the distal ulna is used today in low-demand individuals or as a salvage option after failed management of distal radioulnar joint arthritis or instability. Indications for distal ulnar resection include the following:
- DRUJ arthritis
o Rheumatoid/inflammatory
o Degenerative
o Post-traumatic
- Salvage procedure in the setting of
o DRUJ instability
o Unreconstructable distal ulna fracture
o Distal ulnar osteomyelitis
- Tumor
Following resection of the distal ulna, instability may be present. To address instability of the distal ulnar remnant, stabilization can be performed though various techniques. A separate video demonstrates stabilization of the ulna using the approach discussed by Kleinman and Greenberg.
Following resection of the distal ulna without stabilization, the extremity is maintained in a well-padded, long-arm splint with the elbow at 90 degrees and the forearm supinated for 3 weeks. At 3 weeks postoperatively, long-arm splintage between exercises and at night begins and persists until 6 to 8 weeks postoperatively. Strengthening without splint immobilization can begin at that time.
Absolute contraindications
o Ulnar translation of the carpi (may consider Sauve-Kapandji)
Relative contraindications
- Active individual
o May consider other procedures which preserve the distal radioulnar joint
o May consider adjunctive stabilization