AB257. Ulnar hemiarthroplasty: a single surgeon experience in Ireland

Background: Ulnar hemiarthroplasty is a procedure performed for pain and stiffness of the wrist due to distal radio-ulnar joint (DRUJ) pathology. The current literature describing the procedure and its outcomes is very sparse. The aim of this study was to assess the outcomes from this procedure performed by a single surgeon in a tertiary referral centre.

Methods: We carried out a retrospective review of all patients who underwent ulnar hemiarthroplasty by a single surgeon over a 4-year period. Patient demographic details, pre- and post-operative range of movement and pain scores were collected. Functional outcomes were measured using the QuickDASH questionnaire.

Results: A total of 7 patients [4 females; 3 males, mean age 52 (32–71 years)] underwent distal ulnar hemiarthroplasty over the 4-year period. The indication for the procedure was degenerative OA in 4 patients and post-traumatic OA in 3. The mean improvement in range of movement with regard to the pronation/supination arc was 45 degrees. Pain improved an average of 7 points on the visual analogue scale (VAS) scoring system. Overall, the majority of patients were very satisfied with their outcome, with an average follow up of 6 months and mean QuickDASH scores of 31.1. One patient required additional soft tissue release.

Conclusions: Performing a distal ulnar hemiarthroplasty preserves both bone stock and ligamentous attachments at the DRUJ. Theoretically, it is a preferable option for young patients in whom a resection arthroplasty or wrist fusion may produce unsatisfactory functional results. Our results show a high patient satisfaction rate with this procedure.

Keywords: Ulnar hemiarthroplasty; distal radio-ulnar pathology; wrist osteoarthritis