Evolution of the experience with the semiconstrained distal radioulnar joint arthroplasty: A single center review of medium-term outcomes and complications.

Authors

Martina Greminger, Laima Bandzaite, Inga Swantje Besmens, Gabriella Fischer, Maurizio Calcagni

Published in

Journal of hand surgery global online. Volume 9. Issue 1. Pages 101117. Epub Sep 03, 2026.

Abstract

Replacement of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) using a semiconstrained implant arthroplasty (Aptis) has demonstrated the capacity to restore function. The aim of this study was to investigate medium-term outcomes and navigate the effect of increasing experience with this implant, and compare the results with other follow-up studies.
We retrospectively investigated 36 DRUJ implant arthroplasties in 34 patients operated on between 2010 and 2021 for complications and revision surgeries. The average follow-up time was 4.4 years. In 15 patients with available data and surviving implant over time, we compared pre- and postoperative pain level and total active motion, as well as weight-bearing ability.
Overall pain reduction was significant. Active range of motion and weight bearing ability was stable over time. We observed no infection. Revision surgery was necessary in 27% of cases, and the overall survival rate of the implant was 91% with a mean follow-up of 53 months.
We conclude that implant arthroplasty of the DRUJ reduces pain and preserves function. An extremely precise surgical technique is mandatory to avoid complications.
Prognosis/IIb.

PMID:
42733603
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 14 Sep 2026.

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