Interosseous Membrane Reconstruction for Forearm Instability

Abstract

The forearm is a joint made of the proximal and distal radioulnar articulations that are stabilized by intercondylar ligaments that make up the interosseous membrane (IOM), the most important of which for longitudinal instability is the central condensation. High-energy axial load through the hand can lead to radial head fracture and a spectrum of soft tissue instability. Early identification of the injury is key to restoration of stability using anatomical principles to reconstruct the torn soft tissue restraints. Central condensation reconstruction is performed using a stiff synthetic graft and a docking technique to tie over Endobuttons. This can successfully restore stability, but other additional procedures may be required for more complex instability patterns.