Locking of the Distal Radioulnar Joint Caused by Dorsal Tear of the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex: A Case Report

CASE We encountered a case of locking of the distal radioulnar joint after a traumatic injury that restricted the supination and pronation of the wrist. The locking was released surgically with a good 2-year outcome. We found a tear between the dorsal aspect of the joint capsule and the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC). The tear allowed the TFCC to displace volarly and become entrapped against the volar aspect of the ulnar head. CONCLUSION The open approach facilitated visualization and understanding of this unusual injury pattern and allowed direct repair. Joint incongruity may not occur despite a locked joint.