Proximal radioulnar joint

The proximal radioulnar joint is a pivot type synovial joint between the circumference of the head of the radius and the ring formed by the radial notch of the ulna and the annular ligament.

Gross anatomy

Joint capsule

The joint capsule encloses the joint; both it and the synovial membrane are continuous with that of the elbow joint.

Movement

Rotatory movements of the head of the radius within the collar formed by the annular ligament and the radial notch, allowing supination (primarily by the action of the biceps brachii and supinator muscles) and pronation (by the action of pronator teres and pronator quadratus muscles).

See movements of the forearm.

Ligaments

The annular ligament is a strong ligament attached to the anterior and posterior aspects of the radial notch of the ulna. It (along with the radial notch of the ulna) encircles the head of the radius.

Blood supply

From the radial portion of the peri-articular arterial anastomosis of the elbow joint.

Innervation

From articular branches of the musculocutaneous, median, and radial nerves.