Connie Y. Chang MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Ambrose J. Huang MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Miriam Antoinette Bredella MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Susan V. Kattapuram MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Martin Torriani MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

To evaluate the morphologic characteristics of distal ulna that correlate with extensor carpi ulnaris pathology (ECU).

We retrospectively reviewed 115 adult wrist MR imaging studies with the terms “extensor carpi ulnaris” over a period of 12 years. Thirty-four cases satisfied our inclusion criteria for presence of ECU pathology and were selected. MR imaging studies from thirty-two age-matched subjects without ulnar-sided wrist pain were used as controls. The following morphologic parameters of distal ulna were measured by 2 blinded readers: styloid length, styloid radius from ulnar head center, groove depth and length, and variance relative to radius. ECU analysis included cross sectional area, position of insertion at first metacarpal base, presence of subluxation, tendinopathy, tenosynovitis or tear. Statistical analyses were performed comparing ECU pathology and control groups, and correlating specific ECU pathology to ulnar morphology.

Ulnar variance was significantly different between groups (p=0.02), with the ECU pathology group showing negative ulnar variance. Within the ECU pathology group, significant negative ulnar variance (p=0.02) and shorter groove length (p=0.0006) were seen in subjects with ECU subluxation/dislocation. In addition, subjects with ECU tendinopathy (p=0.048) and tears (p=0.04) showed deeper ulnar grooves. Other morphologic features of distal ulna were not significantly different between groups or associated with ECU pathology.

Distal ulnar morphology, such as negative ulnar variance and ulnar groove length and depth, may have a potential role in ECU pathology.

Specific features of distal ulnar anatomy may have a potential role in extensor carpi ulnaris pathology.

Chang, C, Huang, A, Bredella, M, Kattapuram, S, Torriani, M, Potential Role of Distal Ulnar Morphology in Extensor Carpi Ulnaris Pathology.  Radiological Society of North America 2012 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 25 - November 30, 2012 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2012/12024788.html