Comparing two methods for treating wrist osteoarthritis

Norwegian Distal Ulna Resection vs. Replacement Study. A Prospective Randomized Multicenter Study

Not applicable Interventional Ostfold Hospital Trust · NCT04074863

This study is testing whether a surgery that removes part of the wrist or a surgery that replaces it works better for people with painful wrist arthritis.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages30 Years to 75 Years
SexAll
SponsorOstfold Hospital Trust Academic / other
Locations6 sites (Lillehammer, Oppland and 5 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04074863 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of the Darrach procedure, which involves resection of the ulnar head, with ulnar head replacement for treating osteoarthritis of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ). Participants will be individuals experiencing stable but painful DRUJ joints, and the study will be conducted as a prospective randomized multicenter trial across several hospitals in Norway. The goal is to determine which method provides better clinical outcomes and fewer complications. Informed consent will be obtained from all participants before enrollment.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals with painful osteoarthritis of the distal radioulnar joint who have stable joints.

Not a fit: Patients with active inflammatory diseases, significant instability in the DRUJ, or those who are considered 'low demand' may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment options for patients suffering from wrist osteoarthritis, enhancing their quality of life and functional capacity.

How similar studies have performed: While studies have shown good long-term results for both resection and replacement methods, this study is novel in directly comparing the two approaches.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* painful osteoarthritis distal radioulnar joint
* stable DRUJ

Exclusion Criteria:

* activ inflammatory disease with significant destruction of the joint
* "low demand" persons
* significant instability i DRUJ
* active infections, poor soft tissue conditions
* accidental wound on the operated hand
* general contraindications for surgery

Where this trial is running

Lillehammer, Oppland and 5 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Osteoarthritis WristDistal radioulnar jointDarrach procedureUlnar head resectionHerbert prosthesisUlnar head replacement
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.