The present study was designed to evaluate long-term outcome of upper extremities and subjective self-assessment of patient disability after a Kapandji-Sauvé procedure by means of the DASH score.
Between 1986 and 1996, a modified Kapandji-Sauvé procedure was performed in 117 patients with painfully limited forearm rotation and arthrosis of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ). Of the 117 patients, 73 women and 32 men, whose ages at operation ranged from 22 to 74 years (average, 58 years) were retrospectively reviewed clinically and radiologically eight years (range, five to twelve years) after the operation. The DASH questionnaire was used in 43 patients.
The mean DASH score was 28 points (range, 0 to 53 points). The mean score in part A was 1.9 points, in part B 1.8 points. Worst outcomes were noted for activities requiring the exertion of force. Pain was reduced in 97 % of the patients. Forearm rotation and grip strength improved in all patients.
Our clinical findings suggest that the Kapandji-Sauvé procedure is indicated in symptomatic, non-reconstructable disorders of the DRU-joint with or without ulnocarpal impaction syndrome. The DASH questionnaire provides a general view of functional outcome after the Kapandji-Sauvé procedure, though rotation is absolutely necessary to evaluate the success of the operation.