Graft reconstruction of the interosseous membrane in conjunction with metallic radial head replacement: A cadaveric study

With the IOM resected insertion of a metal radial head implant alone did not reduce distal ulnar forces to intact forearm levels. When an IOM reconstruction was performed in combination with the implant mean distal ulnar force was reduced significantly to a level below that for the intact forearm. Applying pretension to the graft displaced the radius distally thereby making the wrist more ulnar negative and reducing distal ulnar force. Our results suggest that an IOM reconstruction used in combination with a metal radial head implant theoretically could help reduce distal ulnar impaction in an Essex-Lopresti injury.