Arthroscopic Release of the Proximal Radioulnar Joint in Elbow Osteoarthritis

The elbow joint consists of the ulnotrochlear joint, radiocapitellar joint, and proximal radioulnar joint [1]. The proximal radioulnar joint is formed by the articulation between the ulnar notch and the radial head, with the annular ligament surrounding the radial head contributing to stability [2, 3]. The proximal radioulnar joint facilitates the pronation and supination motions of the forearm in coordination with the distal radioulnar joint [4]. Additionally, OA deformities also can affect the proximal radioulnar joint (PRUJ), with changes such as the formation of osteophytes, subchondral cysts, loose bodies in the joint space, and narrowing of the joint space observed on CT scans [5]. Clinically, patients also present impairment in pronation and supination [6]. Limitations in rotation can cause discomfort in daily activities; for instance, restricted pronation may hinder typing on a keyboard, while restricted supination can lead to difficulties when holding a smartphone with one hand [7]. In this chapter, we aim to describe the arthroscopic release technique of the proximal radioulnar joint (PRUJ).