Distal radioulnar joint subluxation secondary to excision of the radial head

Subluxation of the distal radioulnar joint, degenerative arthritis, and wrist pain are recognized sequelae of radial head excision. Recently the authors treated a patient who developed symptoms of wrist pain 20 yr after radial head resection. Thirty years after excision the symptoms were severe, and subluxation of the joint was greater (6 mm) than in any case reported previously. The long asymptomatic interval associated with marked subluxation and severe symptoms suggests that long term followup is required to determine the incidence of this complication.