Disorders of the distal radioulnar joint.

Disorders of the distal radioulnar joint can be classified into functional abnormalities based on instability, incongruity of the joint surface, impaction, and isolated triangular fibrocartilage complex tears. Knowledge of the type of lesion aids in selecting the treatment option best suited to correcting each problem. This review begins by summarizing the anatomy of the distal radioulnar joint. It then examines the various clinical problems that may arise in this complicated anatomic area and outlines the different surgical and nonsurgical options available to treat these disorders. The most important aspect in treatment of disorders of the distal radioulnar joint is early recognition, followed by prompt appropriate surgical or nonsurgical management.