An analysis of the constraint properties of the distal radioulnar ligament attachments to the ulna

Nine cadaver upper extremities were tested to evaluate the constraint properties of the dorsal and palmar radioulnar ligaments at their foveal and styloid attachments to the ulna. The specimens were tested by anterior and posterior displacement of the radius relative to the ulna with the forearm in pronation, supination, and neutral rotation. There were no statistically significant differences in the relative percent of constraint contribution of the styloid and foveal ligament insertions. In neutral forearm rotation total displacement after sectioning both ligament insertions tended to be larger in palmar than in dorsal displacement. A similar trend was observed with 60degrees forearm supination. In the pronated position, however, the trend was reversed with larger total displacement in dorsal displacement. (J Hand Surg 2002;27A:61-67. Copyright (C) 2002 by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand.).