Radiolunate and radioscapholunate arthrodesis

Abstract

Eleven patients underwent radiocarpal arthrodesis for a wrist disease other than rheumatoid arthritis. Operations included seven radiolunate fusions and four radioscapholunate fusions. The indication for surgery was posttraumatic changes secondary to radius fracture (five), Kienböck's disease (three), localized arthritis secondary to sepsis (two) and acute comminuted fracture of the distal radius (one). All patients had arthritis or post-traumatic changes limited to the articulation between the radius and carpus. Follow-up ranged from 24 months to 7 years, with an average of 41 months. Postoperatively, average range of motion of the wrist was 30.9° of extension, 22.7° of flexion, 10° of radial deviation, and 19.3° of ulnar deviation, and grip strength averaged 81.8% of that for the uninvolved hand. Pain relief was achieved in all patients, and they were able to return to their previous occupation. Bony union was achieved in all cases. Degenerative changes in the midcarpal joint were not seen. © 1992 Springer-Verlag.