Wrist Disarticulation
An upper-extremity amputation at the wrist joint that preserves the full length of the radius and ulna, providing enhanced prosthetic rotational control.
Full Definition
Wrist disarticulation is an amputation in which the hand is removed through the radiocarpal joint, preserving the full forearm length and the distal radioulnar joint. Retention of the distal radioulnar joint maintains a degree of forearm pronation and supination that can be harnessed for prosthetic control. This level is often preferred over short transradial amputation when bone length can be preserved. Editors should note that 'wrist disarticulation' is a precise anatomical description and should not be substituted with 'transradial amputation,' which implies a more proximal level.
Usage
Usage note: Not synonymous with transradial amputation; the anatomical and functional distinctions are clinically and reimbursement-relevant.
In Context
- "A wrist disarticulation was chosen to preserve maximal forearm rotation, improving the patient's potential for body-powered prosthetic use." — Surgical planning note
- "The billing code was revised when the editor identified that the documented level was a wrist disarticulation, not a standard transradial amputation." — Clinical coding review