Complications after total wrist arthroplasty.

We reviewed the incidence and management of complications after total wrist arthroplasty, as reported in the literature, with so-called fourth-generation implants and other recent designs. While early intraoperative and postoperative complications, including fractures, tendon lacerations, infection, nerve compression, tendonitis, stiffness and chronic regional pain syndrome, had an acceptable incidence, late complications, such as periprosthetic osteolysis and implant loosening, occurred more frequently. Implant survival at 10 years was in the range of 70%-80% in most publications. Several of the implants have been modified or withdrawn. Instability and dislocation were frequent after a pyrocarbon spacer. Failed arthroplasties can be salvaged by revision arthroplasty or total wrist arthrodesis. Revision arthroplasty has a lower survival rate than primary arthroplasty and does not clearly offer important significant advantages over total wrist arthrodesis in terms of patient-reported outcome measures. Further development of prosthetic design, new materials and more knowledge on patient-related risk factors are needed.

A New Arthroscopic Classification of Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex Disorders.

Introduction The use of wrist arthroscopy has become a prerequisite for diagnosis and treatment of triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) disorders. Since Palmer's landmark paper, many new arthroscopic descriptions of TFCC tears have been published but there is no currently available updated comprehensive arthroscopic classification of TFCC lesions. Purpose We recently described the arthroscopic anatomy of the TFCC as viewed from a 3-4 portal. Our purpose was to propose a new TFCC disorders classification based on this new arthroscopic TFCC description. Methods We included all currently described TFCC disorders to the best of our knowledge into our arthroscopic, functional, and vascular anatomical concept. We also included patient's specific ulnar variance and distal radial ulnar joint coronal inclination as baseline treatment-oriented parameters. The fresh or chronic, reparable or nonreparable nature of some types of TFCC tears were considered as separate parameters. Results The proposed classification includes disc "D" (degenerative or traumatic), reins "R" (traumatic), and wall "W" (traumatic) lesions. Combined lesions of those three parts of the TFCC may be easily identified. This new classification should facilitate future analysis of isolated or combined TFCC disorders whether they are degenerative and/or traumatic. Discussion The authors present a new three-dimensional-three-part arthroscopic updated description of TFCC disorders with relevance to etiology and treatment principles.

Total Wrist Arthroplasty: An International Perspective.

Concerns about implant durability and technical difficulty continue to make total wrist arthroplasties a specialized procedure with a narrow scope of indications. As a result, more routinely performed total or partial wrist arthrodesis continues to maintain popularity over arthroplasty. However, wrist motion preservation is undoubtedly preferable for patients and current literature is trending to more favorable outcomes for total wrist arthroplasties. In the setting of the evolving role of wrist arthroplasties in clinical practice, it is important to focus on providing hand surgeons a practical approach to incorporating total wrist arthroplasty into the treatment toolbox available to them when treating patients with painful wrist arthritis.

Role for Wrist Hemiarthroplasty in Acute Irreparable Distal Radius Fracture in the Elderly.

Volar locking plates for distal radius fracture (DRF) in the elderly may show complications in the most comminuted osteoporotic cases. The authors provide criteria for DRF in elderly that may not be amenable to volar plating ("irreparable DRF") and review the current results of a preliminary series of wrist hemiarthroplasty for these injuries. Between 2011 and 2019, 28 wrists with acute irreparable intra-articular DRF were treated with wrist hemiarthroplasty (96% female, mean age 79 years). A total of 17 wrists with a mean follow-up of 32 months were reviewed. At follow-up, mean visual analog scale (VAS) pain was 1/10, mean forearm rotation arc was 148°.

New Computerized Elbow and Forearm Clinical Scores.

Background Current elbow clinical scores are scarce with limited comparability between them. None of them are computerized yet. There is no forearm clinical score assessing all anatomical components of forearm disorders such as the Essex-Lopresti injuries. The aims of this paper were to present new computerized elbow and forearm clinical scores. Methods These new computerized elbow and forearm clinical scores include four clinical criteria: pain, function, active range of motion and muscle strength. To each criterion is given a numerical value among 5 grades. The weight of each criterion is equivalent so that patient's and physician's related scores are equally balanced. Results Clinical scores components are automatically included into diamond-shape graphs and tables that can be directly exported into PowerPoint presentations for demonstration and comparison purposes. Discussion These user-friendly updatable clinical elbow and forearm scores are based on four classic clinical criteria, pain, function, motion, and strength that are expressed into grades. They were designed to evaluate any osteoarticular elbow or forearm disorder regardless of the etiology. These scores are open since they may be modified in future versions.

Arthroscopically Assisted Treatment of Volar Rim Fractures.

Background Arthroscopically-assisted reduction and internal fixation (AARIF) for distal radius fractures (DRF) has been extensively described. Little information is available about AARIF in AO "B3" and "C" DRF with displaced lunate facet volar rim fragment (VRF) and volar carpal subluxation. However, lunate volar rim fragment (LVRF) may be very difficult to reduce and fix under arthroscopic control using the flexor carpi radialis (FCR) or FCR extended approaches while traction is applied. Purposes The aims were to describe our surgical technique of AARIF of partial or complete DRF with VRF and provide information about how often this technique may be necessary, based on a large DRF database. Methods The dual-window volar approach for complete articular AO C DRF with volar medial fragment was described in 2012 for performing open reduction internal fixation (ORIF). Since 2015, we have used the dual-window approach for AARIF of "B3" or "C" DRF with volar carpal subluxation. We analyzed our PAF database, searching for patients treated with AARIF in "B3" and "C" fractures. Results The dual-window volar approach is very useful when using AARIF for AO "B3" and "C" DRF with displaced VRF and volar carpal subluxation. The anteromedial part of the exposure allows a direct access to reduction and fixation of the LVRF under traction and arthroscopic control. Overall, 1% of all articular DRF in this series showed a displaced LVRF amenable to the dual-window volar approach. Conclusion It is almost impossible to access and properly fix a VRF using traction and arthroscopic control through the FCR or FCR extended FCR approach because of the stretched flexor tendon mass. The use of the dual-window approach during AARIF of AO "B3" or "C" DRF has not previously been reported. Displaced VRF are rare whether they were part of "B3" or "C" fractures. If AARIF is chosen, we strongly recommend the use of the dual-window volar approach for AO "B3" and "C" fractures with VRF. A single anteromedial approach can also be used for isolated "B3" anteromedial DRF.

Reverse Perilunate Injuries-The "Extended Scaphoid" Sign.

Background Reverse perilunate injuries (REPLI) are rare variants of the classic radial-sided perilunate injuries (PLI) whose mechanism was described by Mayfield in 1980. Classic radial-sided nontranscaphoid dorsal PLI invariably display a flexed, foreshortened position of the scaphoid on their initial posteroanterior (PA) and lateral radiographs. We observed that some dorsal perilunate dislocations displayed an extended position of the scaphoid on their initial radiographs. Our hypothesis is that this extended position of the scaphoid was associated with a REPLI pattern. Methods The PA and lateral initial emergency radiographs of our specialized wrist surgery series of 114 dorsal pure ligamentous PLI (within a 186 cases series of PLI treated between 2004 and 2020) were reviewed as well as the available figures of the current REPLI literature. Results A total of seven cases of cases within our dorsal PLI series displayed an extended position of the scaphoid on their initial PA and lateral radiographs, while 107 cases displayed a flexed, foreshortened position. The PA and lateral radiographs available in the REPLI literature displayed an extended position of the scaphoid, a lunotriquetral dissociation, and a dorsal dislocation of the capitate with respect to the lunate. Discussion This study confirms our hypothesis. By contrast to the dorsal classic radial-sided pure ligamentous PLI pattern of scaphoid displacement (scaphoid flexed and foreshortened with scapholunate gap), the dorsal REPLI pattern displays an extended position of the scaphoid with scapholunate step-off and overlap rather than a gap. The combination of a lunotriquetral dissociation with a dorsal dislocation of the capitate from the lunate yet an extended position of the scaphoid with almost normal radioscaphoid relationships should raise a high suspicion for REPLI.

Arthroscopic Anatomy of the TFCC with Relevance to Function and Pathology.

Introduction The authors present a new comprehensive arthroscopic anatomical description of the fibrocartilage complex "TFCC" which is related to the current TFCC functional and pathological knowledge. Methods Our description of the TFCC is based on an arthroscopic view from the 3-4 portal as observed in more than 100 wrist arthroscopies in fresh cadavers and more than 1000 diagnostic and/or therapeutic wrist arthroscopies. Results TFCC is considered as a 3-D-3-part box-like structure (Reins, Wall and Disc). The first TFCC component ("R") corresponds to 2 strong radio-ulnar ligamentous Reins, one dorsal (DRUL) and one palmar (PRUL). This "V-shaped" RUL reins diverge from the fovea and ulnar styloid to the volar and dorsal edges of the sigmoid notch. It is a main stabilizer of the DRUJ. The second TFCC component ("W") is a continuous, radially concave Peripheral Capsular Wall attached and perpendicular to the RUL reins. It surrounds the ulnar aspect of the ulno-carpal interval while attaching to the RUL reins proximally and to the medial carpus distally. Along with the radiocarpal ligaments, the TFCC peripheral capsular wall contributes to the stability of the carpus with respect to the radius-ulna entity. This is especially true for the thick volar TFCC capsular wall. The third TFCC component ("D") is the disc proper which is a static and dynamic shock absorber intercalated between the ulnar head and the medial proximal row in the coronal/sagittal planes and between the two strands of the RUL in the axial plane. Its pathology is influenced and related to the ulnar variance. Discussion This new arthroscopic description of the TFCC provides a comprehensive anatomical, functional ant pathological background for TFCC disorders analysis and treatment. Currently known disorders are included as "R 1,2,3,4", "W 1, 2, 3, 4", and "D 1, 2". Combined TFCC disorders and further new pathology descriptions may be included in this open classification.

Long dorsal "Y-shaped" plate for distal diaphyseal humeral fractures.

BACKGROUND: Osteosynthesis of distal diaphyseal humeral fractures is challenging, especially if there is a metaphyseal extension of the fracture line with a butterfly third fragment or if the fracture is bifocal. These fractures put the radial nerve at risk at the time of the fracture and during surgery. We hypothesize that ORIF with a long dorsal Y-plate matching the dorsal aspects of the humeral diaphysis and of the two metaphyseal columns would provide a reliable method of fixation for distal diaphyseal humeral fractures even when there is a metaphyseal extension or bifocal component. METHODS: Between 2015 and 2019, 17 distal diaphyseal humeral fractures in 17 consecutive patients (14 men, 3 women, mean age 38 years) were operated on with a long "Y-shaped" dorsal plate. There were two bifocal fractures and 11 diaphyso-metaphyseal fractures with butterfly fragments. All 17 patients could be retrospectively followed up clinically and radiographically at a mean follow-up of 25 months (min 4, max 40). Clinical charts included VAS pain, elbow range of motion, QuickDASH, MEPS and subjective elbow value. RESULTS: Bone healing was observed in all cases. Five patients (29%) had a pre-operative radial nerve palsy. All pre-operative radial nerve palsies but one recovered spontaneously. One complete radial nerve palsy that was not present before the operation was observed after surgery. It recovered spontaneously in four months. One case of post-operative elbow stiffness required a revision. Only one case (5%) showing a complication directly related to the plate (secondary displacement) required revision. Mean post-operative elbow flexion was 134°. Extension deficit averaged 13°. Subjective elbow value, QuickDASH and MEPS averaged respectively 81%, 19 points and 92 points. DISCUSSION: Currently available plates (long dorsal straight, short dorsal "Y-shaped", long lateral) may have limitations in terms of screw purchase or biomechanical efficiency when ORIF of distal diaphyseal humeral fractures is considered. A long dorsal "Y-shaped" plate is a new alternative which may be successfully used even in the most difficult cases. CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that a long dorsal "Y-shaped" plate is suitable for distal diaphyseal humeral fractures especially when there is a metaphyseal bifocal or third fragment component.

Dry Wrist Arthroscopy for Ulnar-Sided Wrist Disorders.

With the evolution of dry wrist arthroscopy, there is an ever-increasing role for its use in the treatment of disorders of the wrist including ligament repair or reconstruction, bony procedures such as distal radius corrective osteotomies or fracture fixation, and partial arthrodesis. We describe some of the tips and tricks that can be used to manage ulnar-sided wrist pain. We particularly emphasize the different technical points to perform dry wrist arthroscopy compared with previously described wet arthroscopic procedures.

Isolated Arthroscopic Radial Styloidectomy: The Three-Portal Approach.

Background The current gold-standard technique for radial styloidectomy is arthroscopic. The use of only two dorsal portals may not allow a crystal-clear view of the dorsal arthritic rim of the radius because of the dorsal capsule synovitis. Objectives To propose a new technique for isolated arthroscopic radial styloidectomy. The addition of a volar radial portal and a sequential procedure are presented. Patients and Methods Two trochars for alternatively viewing from volar radial or 3-4 are used. A 1-2 portal is used for instrumentation with a motorized burr. We have been using the three-portal technique in 34 cases (26 isolated). Results This modification of the classic arthroscopic radial styloidectomy is technically easy and the view of the dorsal rim of the radius provides a clear definition and treatment of the dorso-radial arthritic pathology. Conclusions The authors recommend this technical trick to perform an easy and comprehensive isolated palliative or curative arthroscopic radial styloidectomy.

Dry Wrist Arthroscopy for Radial-Sided Wrist Disorders.

The development of wrist arthroscopy has been useful in diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of both ligament and osseous injuries. As the treatment indications and techniques become more refined, this article explores the role of dry arthroscopy to treat radial-sided disorders of the wrist.

Arthroscopic Treatment of Translunate Perilunate Injuries, Not Dislocated (PLIND).

Background Translunate perilunate dislocations were recently described as well as perilunate injuries, not dislocated (PLIND). The authors present a case of transradial styloid, translunate PLIND which sustained a full arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation. Case Description A 33-year-old man sustained a transradial styloid, translunate PLIND due to a fall from a truck with his wrist in hyperextension. The diagnosis was made at the acute stage. Full arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation with Kirschner wires was performed, followed by a 6 weeks' immobilization period. Uneventful healing of both the lunate and radial styloid were observed at 6 weeks and confirmed with a computed tomography scan. At 4 years of follow-up, the Lyon wrist score was 78% (good). Literature Review Very few lunate fractures are described in the literature. Translunate perilunate dislocations were recently described as well as PLIND. To the best of the authors' knowledge, a case of transradial styloid, translunate PLIND which sustained a full arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation has never been reported so far. Clinical Relevance This case reports a unique pattern of transradial styloid, translunate PLIND and outlines the usefulness of a full arthroscopic treatment. An open reduction for this pattern of injury would have been extensive, difficult, and probably unreliable.

Wrist hemiarthroplasty for irreparable DRF in the elderly.

INTRODUCTION: The authors update their results of wrist hemiarthroplasty for irreparable distal radius fracture in the elderly, at a minimum of 2-year follow-up. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between 2011 and 2018, 25 consecutive independent elderly patients (24 female, 27 wrists) were treated with wrist hemiarthroplasty for distal radius fracture at a single institution. The average age was 77 years (range 65-88). They all were independent at home. A total of 19 wrists were treated at the acute stage, and 8 secondary procedures. The average follow-up was 32 months (range 24-44). RESULTS: There was no dislocation, loosening, infection nor removal of the implants. We observed 3 CRPS. At final follow-up, the average VAS pain was 1/10, mean forearm pronation/supination arc was 150°, and mean active flexion-extension arc was 60°. Average wrist extension was 36°. Mean grip strength was 68% of contralateral side. Mean Lyon wrist score was 74%. Mean Quick DASH score was 26%, and mean PRWE score was 25%. DISCUSSION: Our data suggest that treatment of acute irreparable distal radius fracture in the independent elderly patient with a bone-preserving primary wrist hemiarthroplasty may be a viable option. Longer-term follow-up are needed to confirm these preliminary data.

A New Wrist Clinical Evaluation Score.

Background The number of available wrist scoring systems is limited; some of them do not include forearm rotation criteria. Purpose To describe a new electronic wrist clinical score and to present a new patient's generated wrist evaluation criterion, the subjective wrist value (SWV). Materials and Methods A new electronic wrist clinical score, the Lyon wrist score (LWS) including wrist VAS pain and function, active range of motion and strength was built into an excel file. VAS flexion-extension pain and function were evaluated independently from pronation-supination pain and function. A new patient's generated wrist evaluation criterion, SWV was described. Results The LWS is available in two versions, standard and full (the latter including forearm rotation strength). Both standard and full LWS are displayed into an automatically generated diamond-shaped graph providing a comprehensive visual display of the clinical status of most osteoarticular wrist disorders. The graph also includes SWV. The LWS, combined with SWV into a graph that may be directly exported to a PowerPoint presentation, provide a new practical and comprehensive tool for following/comparing wrist osteoarticular clinical status/outcomes. Both standard and full LWS charts are available in colored versions on a related website for free download. Conclusion A comprehensive updated electronic display of osteoarticular wrist clinical status including forearm rotation criteria is provided and displayed into a graph which may be exported as such into a PowerPoint presentation for clinical analysis/comparisons. Level of Evidence Level II.

Combined three-part humeral anterior fracture-dislocation and humeral shaft fracture treated with one-stage long stem shoulder hemiarthroplasty in an active elderly patient - A case report and review of literature.

INTRODUCTION: Injuries combining a humeral head fracture-dislocation and a shaft fracture of the ipsilateral humerus are very rare. They should be separated from extended fractures of the humeral head to the shaft [1]. CASE REPORT: We present the case of an active 84-year-old man who sustained a three-part fracture-dislocation of the proximal humerus combined with a long spiral humeral middle third diaphyseal fracture, after a ski fall. We were unable to find a similar case in the literature. He was treated with a long stem hemiarthroplasty, associated with screw osteosynthesis of the long spiral shaft fracture. The result after 30 months of follow-up was excellent, with good shoulder range of motion, good bone integration of the prosthesis and uneventful healing of the fracture. CONCLUSION: This treatment allowed this intrepid elderly patient to recover a normal quality of life, including driving his car and to return to skiing.

Current European Practice in Wrist Arthroplasty.

The results of wrist arthroplasty for severely destroyed and painful wrists are generally good in pain reduction, increased grip strength, and upper limb function. The wrist range of motion is usually preserved but not improved. Implant survival seems better than it was with earlier implant designs; however, there are problems of carpal component loosening. Patient selection plays an important role, requiring experience, careful patient information, and discussing the pros and cons of arthroplasty and partial or total wrist arthrodesis.

Coronal Fractures of the Scaphoid: A Review.

Coronal (or frontal plane) fractures of the scaphoid are distinctly uncommon. There are few published reports of coronal fractures of the scaphoid. This fracture is often missed on the initial X-ray films. A high index of suspicion should exist when there is a double contour of the proximal scaphoid pole on the anteroposterior X-ray view. A computed tomography scan is integral in making the diagnosis. Early recognition is key in salvaging the scaphoid fracture and in preventing articular damage. Level of Evidence IV. Retrospective case series.

In Vivo High-Resolution Trabecular Microstructure of Kienböck Lunate before and after Radial Shortening: A Case Report.

We report a patient with stage IIIB Kienböck disease treated with radial shortening where preoperative and sequential postoperative imaging were done using in vivo high-resolution peripheral quantitative micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) scan. Sequential in vivo micro-CT scan analysis of a target zone of the Kienböck lunate of this patient demonstrated early signs of lunate remodeling (bone trabecular densification) at 5-month follow-up suggesting an ongoing healing process. These early remodeling micro-CT scan signs were confirmed at 5 years' follow-up as well.