International Journal of Drug Delivery Technology
Volume 16, Issue 10s, 2026
Case Report

Biotape Synthetic Graft for Ligament Reconstruction in Chronic Distal Radioulnar Instability: A Case Report

1* Rashif Akmal Muhammad, 1,2 Teddy Heri Wardhana, 1,2 Pramono Ari Wibowo

1Department of Orthopaedic and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University / Dr. Soetomo General Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia

2Hand and Microsurgery Division of Department of Orthopaedic and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University / Dr. Soetomo General Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia

Postal Address: Jl. Prof. DR. Moestopo No.6-8, Airlangga, Kec. Gubeng, Surabaya, Jawa Timur 60286

Author 1 (Corresponding): Rashif Akmal Muhammad - Email: rashif.akmal@yahoo.co.id, Phone Number: (+62)82230247248

Author 2: Teddy Heri Wardhana - Email: teddy-heri-w@fk.unair.ac.id, (+62)81330047500

Author 3: Pramono Ari Wibowo - Email: dr.pramono@gmail.com, (+62)81230572894


Abstract

Instability of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) may result in chronic ulnar-sided wrist pain, limited forearm rotation, and impaired hand function. Synthetic augmentation materials have emerged as potential alternatives that provide immediate biomechanical stability while avoiding donor-site complications.

Female, 61-year-old with chronic ulnar-sided wrist pain and restricted pronation–supination due to fall. Physical examination indicating distal radioulnar joint instability. Radiographic demonstrated widening of the DRUJ space and ligamentous disruption. Surgical reconstruction was performed using a synthetic Biotape graft placed through anatomically oriented bone tunnels in the distal radius and ulna and followed by physical rehabilitation. At 6 weeks follow-up, pain was improved and wrist stability restored. Radiographic evaluation confirmed maintained joint congruity without recurrent subluxation.

Synthetic graft augmentation has been reported to provide biomechanical stability comparable to native ligament function in experimental models. While clinical evidence is limited, this report suggests that biotape synthetic graft can became alternative for managing chronic DRUJ instability, particularly in patients with compromised autograft options.

Keywords: Distal radioulnar joint instability; ligament reconstruction; synthetic graft; biotape

How to cite this article: Muhammad RA, Wardhana TH, Wibowo PA. Biotape Synthetic Graft for Ligament Reconstruction in Chronic Distal Radioulnar Instability: A Case Report. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(10s): 299-303; DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.10s.41

Source of support: Nil.

Conflict of interest: None