BACKGROUND: The Sauvé-Kapandji procedure can result in instability of the proximal ulnar stump. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We reviewed 44 patients (mean follow-up time 6 (0.6-13) years) to investigate predictive factors for ulnar instability after Sauvé-Kapandji operation. We used several scores including an instability score specifically designed for this study. RESULTS: Patients with a longer proximal ulnar stump had significantly lower instability scores, significantly better Mayo Modified wrist scores and DASH scores, and also less pain than those with shorter proximal ulna. INTERPRETATION: If the shortening of the proximal stump is less than 35 mm, a reliable improvement in motion and a high patient satisfaction can be expected. The risk of a painful ulnar instability is related to the amount of resection, and can be reduced by creating a long upper ulnar stump.
BACKGROUND: The Sauvé-Kapandji procedure can result in instability of the proximal ulnar stump. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We reviewed 44 patients (mean follow-up time 6 (0.6-13) years) to investigate predictive factors for ulnar instability after Sauvé-Kapandji operation. We used several scores including an instability score specifically designed for this study. RESULTS:Patients with a longer proximal ulnar stump had significantly lower instability scores, significantly better Mayo Modified wrist scores and DASH scores, and also less pain than those with shorter proximal ulna. INTERPRETATION: If the shortening of the proximal stump is less than 35 mm, a reliable improvement in motion and a high patient satisfaction can be expected. The risk of a painful ulnar instability is related to the amount of resection, and can be reduced by creating a long upper ulnar stump.