The effect of the wafer procedure on pressure in the distal radioulnar joint

Purpose: To investigate the effect of the wafer procedure on pressure within the distal radioulnar joint. Methods: The effect of increasing transverse distal ulnar head resection with preservation of the ulnar styloid was evaluated in 4 fresh frozen cadaver arms. Specimens were tested in neutral rotation. A standard transaxial load was applied from the radius to the ulna and the distal radioulnar joint intra-articular pressure was evaluated. Results: Increasing amounts of distal ulnar resection led to a linear increase in pressure in the distal radioulnar articulation. Conclusion: The wafer procedure leads to an increase in pressure in the distal radioulnar joint that may lead to the early onset of osteoarthritis. Copyright (C) 2004 by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand.