DRUJn

DRUJn is not a widely recognized term in standard medical literature. In many contexts it may represent a typographical variation or a shorthand related to the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ). The following overview applies to the DRUJ to provide context should DRUJn appear in notes or discussions.

The distal radioulnar joint is the articulation between the distal ends of the radius and ulna, near the wrist. It enables forearm rotation, allowing pronation and supination while the hand remains oriented toward the palm. Stability arises from bony congruity, the interosseous membrane, and the surrounding ligaments, notably the palmar and dorsal distal radioulnar ligaments, as well as the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC). The TFCC also acts as a cushion for ulnar-sided load transmission and helps stabilize the ulna against the carpus.

Clinically, DRUJ pathology can present with pain, a sense of instability, clicking, or reduced forearm rotation. Acute DRUJ injuries may follow forearm twists or distal radius fractures and can result in dislocation or malalignment. Physical examination commonly includes assessment of range of motion and tests for instability, such as a piano-key sign or DRUJ ballottement, complemented by imaging.

Imaging typically starts with plain radiographs in multiple views; CT can assess bony congruity and dislocation, while MRI evaluates soft tissue structures like the TFCC for tears or degenerative changes. Treatment depends on severity and chronicity. Stable injuries may respond to immobilization and rehabilitation, whereas unstable injuries or TFCC tears may require surgical intervention, including repair or reconstruction of the DRUJ ligaments or TFCC, and, in select chronic cases, procedures addressing ulna head stability.

See also: distal radioulnar joint, triangular fibrocartilage complex, forearm biomechanics, DRUJ instability.