Wrist fusion for multiple failed distal radius fracture fixation and Sauvé Kapandji procedure in the same patient– a case report

Abstract

Background: Multiple failed distal radius fracture with nonunion and distal radioulnar joint disruption is challenging to treat. Case details: A 54-year-old laborer had multiple failed implant surgeries for his distal radius fractures. He presented with a nonunion distal radius, severe deformity, pain, and median nerve compressive symptoms. The implants were removed, and wrist fusion was done using the resected bones as grafts. The patient remained symptom-free at two years of follow-up. Conclusions: A wrist fusion is reliable for patients with multiple failed distal radius surgeries and symptomatic nonunion with deformities. The functional and radiological outcome is good, especially for low-demand patients.

Keywords

• Multiple failed distal radius fractures
• Implant breaks
• Nonunion
• Wrist
• Fusion
• Good outcome