Ulnar variance in distal radial fractures: assessment and interpretation

We explored patterns of shortening of the distal radius and investigated the effect of displacement on ‘ulnar variance’ in 250 patients with distal radial fractures. A small number of patients (5%) had a fracture that resulted in true shortening. Thirty-two per cent had fractures that appeared short, but lateral radiographs revealed that the articular surface was tilted, with either the anterior or dorsal rim of the articular surface being proximal to the distal ulna but the other rim was distal to it. We recommend initial assessment of variance on lateral radiographs. If the anterior and dorsal rims of the distal radial articular surface are proximal to the distal ulna, then true shortening is present and lengthening and stabilization, to hold the radius distracted, should be considered. If only one rim is proximal to the distal ulna, then correction of the tilt will lessen the apparent positive variance. Level of evidence: IV

Nora’s lesion of the distal ulna: a case report

Nora’s lesion, also known as bizarre parosteal osteochondromatous proliferation (BPOP), is a very rare benign lesion with few published cases. BPOP is more common in adults during the second to third decades of life, and usually occurs on the hands and feet. Radiologically, it appears as a calcified mass attached to the bone cortex that grows rapidly and that recurs easily following resection. Aggressive features on imaging and confusing histopathological findings usually result in misdiagnosis or mistreatment. Herein, we present a case of a rare bony tumour involving the distal ulna presenting as a painless growing mass. An excisional biopsy with clear margins was performed without disturbing the ulnar nerve and arteries. There was no recurrent mass or calcified lesion 1 year after surgery. Based on its rarity and difficult diagnosis, BPOP should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a painless mass in the distal ulnar region. Careful follow-up after surgery is essential, even without lesion recurrence.

Recurrent giant cell tumour of the distal ulna after en bloc resection with preoperative denosumab use

In recent years, denosumab has been used to treat giant cell tumour of bone (GCTB) not only in cases where surgery is complicated but also preoperatively to decrease the preoperative grade or to facilitate surgery for Campanacci grade II and III cases. However, there are no clear protocols regarding the preoperative use of denosumab before en bloc resection. There are a few reports of recurrent cases after en bloc resection; however, the association with the use of denosumab is unknown. We present the clinical, radiological and histopathological findings of a case of Campanacci grade III GCTB at the distal end of the ulna, which resulted in soft tissue recurrence after en bloc resection with the preoperative use of denosumab.

Ligaments and muscles stabilizing the radio-ulno-carpal joint

The technical simplicity of the Darrach procedure may explain why it has been so popular. Excising the distal ulna, however, may have potentially undesired consequences to the biomechanics in two areas: the distal radioulnar and the ulno-carpal joints. These conjointly define the radio-ulno-carpal joint (RUCJ). The RUCJ is not a small and irrelevant articulation that can be removed without possibly paying a functional penalty. It is an important link of the antebrachial frame that provides stability to the distal forearm and the carpus. This article revisits the mechanisms by which some ligaments and muscles ensure that all forces about and within the RUCJ are dealt with efficiently.