Frequently Asked Questions

A healthy distal radioulnar joint allows you to lift weight without pain.

  • The reduction or elimination of pain
  • Regained motion in the wrist/forearm
  • Improved ability to lift and bear weight

On average, the procedure will last between 1.5 and 2 hours.

With very few exceptions, this is normally an outpatient procedure.

Visit your doctor and ask about the Aptis prosthesis (aka Scheker prosthesis).

We are currently estimating a life expectancy of approximately 20 years.

The recommended maximum is 20lbs on the affected extremity.

Yes, the Aptis prosthesis has been cleared by the FDA for sale in the United States since 2005.

Yes, the prosthesis is CE marked and has been available since 2005.

There are risks with any implantable device. Due to the prosthesis being manufactured out of Cobalt Chrome, patients with nickel allergies should be tested before the procedure to prevent any possible allergic reactions.

This device and the corresponding procedure may be covered by your insurance. Be sure to check with your health care provider.

Yes. One of the intended uses is to help patients with rheumatoid, degenerative or post-traumatic arthritis.

Yes, this prosthesis has been used to replace other prostheses that have failed due to their inability to remain stable or wearing into the bone.

Yes, we have ulnar stems that extend up to 4 cm.

The two best options are ligament reconstruction or ulnar shortening. Consult your physician about these options prior to any sort of ulnar head removal or replacement.

After joint replacement, patients with certain risk factors may need to take antibiotics prior to dental work, including dental cleanings, or before any surgical procedure that could allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream. Your surgeon will discuss with you whether taking preventive antibiotics before dental procedures is needed in your situation.

Non-clinical testing has demonstrated the Aptis DRUJ prosthesis is MR Conditional. Please consult your physician and make sure they are aware of the following information:

The Aptis DRUJ can be scanned safely under the following conditions:

  • Static magnetic field of 3-Tesla or 1.5-Tesla
  • Maximum spatial field gradient of 1900-Gauss/cm
  • Maximum MR system reported, whole body averaged specific absorption rate (SAR) of 1-W/kg (Normal Mode)

In non-clinical testing, the Aptis DRUJ prosthesis produced a temperature rise of less than 7.5°C at a maximum MR system reported, whole body averaged specific absorption rate (SAR) of 1-W/kg for 14 minutes of MR scanning in a 1.5-T or 3-T MR system. The image artifact caused by the device extends approximately 60mm from the Aptis DRUJ Prosthesis when imaged with a gradient echo pulse sequence and a 3-T MR system.