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Arthroscopic Management of Ulnar Impaction Syndrome

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Wrist Arthroscopy

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Conclusion

Arthroscopic wafer resection of the distal ulna has several distinct advantages that make it the surgical procedure of choice for the treatment of UIS with symptomatic Palmer IIC and select IID tears. Contraindications to the use of the arthroscopic wafer procedure include: LTJ instability typical of a Palmer IIE degenerative pattern, DRUJ instability or arthrosis, and excision of the ulnar dome in excess of 4 mm.

Recent clinical reviews of the arthroscopic wafer procedure indicate very good results; minimal complications when compared to open surgical procedures; minimal need for subsequent repeat surgery, such as plate removal, following osteotomy; and the ability to thoroughly evaluate the wrist joint for any associated intra-articular injuries. There is greater patient acceptance of the arthroscopic procedure over competing open surgical procedures. The rehabilitation following arthroscopy is relatively quick and better tolerated by patients.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Southern California, Southern California Orthopaedic Institute, Van Nuys, CA, 91405, USA

    Gregory J. Hanker MD (Assistant Clinical Professor of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery)

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  1. Gregory J. Hanker MD
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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi

    William B. Geissler MD (Professor and Chief, Arthroscopy and Sports Medicine, Professor, Division of Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery, Director, Hand/Upper Extremity Fellowship Program) (Professor and Chief, Arthroscopy and Sports Medicine, Professor, Division of Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery, Director, Hand/Upper Extremity Fellowship Program)

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Hanker, G.J. (2005). Arthroscopic Management of Ulnar Impaction Syndrome. In: Geissler, W.B. (eds) Wrist Arthroscopy. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/0-387-27087-6_10

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/0-387-27087-6_10

  • Publisher Name: Springer, New York, NY

  • Print ISBN: 978-0-387-20897-8

  • Online ISBN: 978-0-387-27087-6

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