Lunate-capitate arthrodesis for scaphoid nonunion: a comparative study.

BACKGROUND: Scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (SNAC) injuries are frequently associated with irreversible degenerative wrist arthritic changes that necessitate surgical intervention. Midcarpal fusion remains the mainstay of the management of SNAC II and III injuries. A successful four-corner fusion (4CF) relies on a stable lunate-capitate fusion (LCF). There have been reports of management relying solely on LCF. The outcomes of LC- and 4 C-fusions in SNAC injuries were not widely documented. The objective of this research is to provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of both fusion procedures in the management of SNAC II and III wrist injuries, with a focus on reporting associated complications, functional and radiological outcomes. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This retrospective study encompassed 65 patients diagnosed with SNAC II and III wrist injuries who underwent limited wrist fusion procedures between 2015 and 2024, with a minimum of 2 years of postoperative follow-up. Exclusion criteria encompassed patients with carpal instability, prior wrist surgical interventions, and scapholunate advanced collapse. Following the fusion procedure performed, patients were stratified into two groups: the LCF group consisting of 31 patients, and the 4CF group comprising 34 patients. Preoperative and intraoperative data were retrieved from the patient's medical records. At their final follow-up appointments, patients underwent comprehensive radiographic and clinical evaluations. Clinical outcomes including hand grip strength, range of motion, the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Score, and the Mayo Modified Wrist Score, were compared between groups. Any associated complications were reported. RESULTS: The average healing time was 74.7 ± 15.6 and 72.2 ± 13.2 days for the LCF and 4CF groups, respectively. At the final visit, all patients showed functional improvement relative to their preoperative status, with comparable wrist range of motions observed in both groups. The functional wrist scores were slightly better in the LCF patients (P > 0.05). The average grip strength was significantly greater in the LCF group (P = 0.04), with mean strength values of 86.8% and 82.1% of the contralateral side, for the LCF and 4CF groups, respectively. CONCLUSION: The LCF is not less efficient than the 4CF in the treatment of SNAC II and III wrist injuries. Through a less time-consuming procedure, LCF can efficiently provide comparable results to 4CF. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: level IV evidence.

Bilateral ST-coalition with thumb hypoplasia and scaphoid synchondrosis.

Carpal coalitions are rare wrist anomalies and are most often diagnosed incidentally. Due to their infrequent occurrence, there is a lack of treatment guidelines in the literature. We present a case study of a 13-year-old boy who presented with symptomatic synchondrosis in both scaphoids along with a bilateral osseous coalition between the scaphoid and trapezium bones in combination with bilateral thumb hypoplasia. We initiated a 10-week immobilization of the wrist, followed by gradual increasing weight-bearing. The patient showed significant symptom relieve after immobilization, further supporting the conservative treatment. In conclusion, a definitive treatment recommendation cannot be made. For young patients, we suggest initiating conservative treatment as the first option. A precise analysis of the pathology and wrist kinematics is mandatory to recommend further therapy especially if operative interventions might be considered.

Scaphoid nonunion: a novel modification of Matti-Russe technique with enhanced recovery and full clinical and radiographic union.

BACKGROUND: A scaphoid fracture is a common injury affecting the wrist joint. A fracture of the carpus scaphoid can heal uneventfully or be complicated by non-union. Scaphoid non-union can result in persistent wrist pain, and with functional difficulties affecting all activities of daily living of the patients, this disability is expected to be significant since most of these patients are young active adults. HYPOTHESIS: Extensive removal of the bone from the scaphoid, with the application of a large amount of cancellous bone graft and fixation with two to three wires, could lead to a high union rate and a good functional outcome. METHODS: Eighteen patients with scaphoid fracture non-union were recruited during their visit to the upper limb clinic at our institute. Demographic data were collected, and data regarding comorbidities, smoking, manual work, and others were recorded. Data regarding the interval between injury and surgery, time to radiographic union, and functional wrist scores were reported as well. RESULTS: A cohort of 18 patients was included. The mean age of patients was 30 years; most of our patients were healthy (83.3%), and more than two-thirds were smokers (72.2%). The mean follow-up time was 18 months (1.5 years), 15 patients (83.3%) achieved radiographic unions by 2-3 months, and the remaining 3 patients (16.7%) achieved radiographic unions by (4-5) months, i.e., all patients achieved successful radiographic unions by 5 months at maximum. The mean Mayo score for our series was 83.6 (± 12.4), with 5 patients (27%) achieved ≥ 95% which indicates a significantly high functioning wrist in our cohort. CONCLUSION: Our modified technique with enhanced stability from using three k-wires can achieve full clinical and radiographic unions and result in enhanced recovery postoperatively with cast immobilization limited to 6 weeks total. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV Case series study.

Osteochondral Autograft Transplantation for Proximal Pole Scaphoid Nonunions.

PURPOSE: Osteochondral autograft transplantation (OAT) is a technique to reconstruct the proximal pole scaphoid nonunion associated with an intact dorsal and volar scapholunate ligament. This study aimed to report the clinical and radiographic outcomes in patients who underwent OAT for this indication. METHODS: A retrospective review of patients who underwent proximal pole scaphoid nonunion reconstruction with a femoral trochlea OAT was undertaken between 2018 and 2022. Patient demographics, scaphoid nonunion characteristics, surgery details, and clinical and radiographic outcomes were obtained. RESULTS: Eight patients underwent the procedure at an average of 18.2 months from injury. Four patients failed prior attempts at scaphoid union surgery, one of whom failed two prior surgeries. Four had no prior surgery. The average follow-up was 11.8 months. The postoperative wrist flexion-extension arc of motion was 125° or 87% of the contralateral wrist. Grip strength averaged 30.0 kg or 86% of the contralateral side. Adjusted grip strength for hand dominance was 81% of the contralateral side. All OATs healed. Computed tomography scan confirmed the union in 6 patients between 6 and 10 weeks. Two patients whose radiographs demonstrated OAT incorporation at the time of follow-up did not undergo advanced imaging. CONCLUSIONS: Osteochondral autograft transplantation is an attractive surgical reconstructive procedure for patients with proximal pole scaphoid nonunions associated with an intact scapholunate ligament. Osteochondral autograft transplantation mitigates the need for vascularized bone grafting, has a rapid time to osseous incorporation, and has a simple postoperative course in which patients can expect early union, near-full range of motion, and grip strength. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic V.

Treatment Outcomes of All Arthroscopic 4-Corner Arthrodesis Techniques With 2 Headless Screws.

PURPOSE: Scaphoid excision with 4-corner arthrodesis is a safe procedure that relieves pain while also preserving the functional movements of the wrist. Different techniques have been described with successful results. In this study, we present the midterm clinical outcomes of 17 patients who underwent treatment with our arthroscopic 4-corner arthrodesis technique. METHODS: Patients with at least 1 year of follow-up were included in our study. Preoperative and postoperative radiologic, functional, and clinical results were compared. Radiologic and clinical union were achieved in all patients. RESULTS: Significant improvement was observed in Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand, Mayo Wrist Score, visual analog scale, and Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation scores. Although wrist range of motion increased in the radioulnar plane, no clinically important change was observed in the flexion-extension arc. The patients were able to return to work in an average of 10 weeks. CONCLUSIONS: The arthroscopic 4-corner arthrodesis technique is a method with satisfactory outcomes. The main disadvantage of this procedure is that it requires a lengthy operative time, and both specific expertise and equipment. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

Perfusion of the proximal scaphoid pole: correlation between preoperative ge-MRI and intraoperative findings.

BACKGROUND: Gadolinium enhanced MRI (ge-MRI) is considered as gold standard for perfusion evaluation in case of scaphoid nonunion (SNU). However, its clinical value and specificity is still not clearly evaluated. This study compares preoperative ge-MRI-based perfusion assessment and intraoperative proximal pole (PP) perfusion after scaphoid reconstruction by vascularized bone grafts. In addition, the postoperative osseous consolidation (OC) was correlated to intraoperative perfusion findings. METHODS: Between 08/2010 and 01/2020, 60 of 271 patients with scaphoid nonunion received a vascularized radius bone graft for reconstruction. Medical reports were checked for intra-op perfusion findings. Consolidation rate was assessed at mean follow-up of 3 months by CT evaluation. In 50 cases (83.2%), complete medical and radiological history could be obtained. Preoperative ge-MRI was reevaluated by a blinded radiologist for advanced analysis of sensitivity and specificity. RESULTS: Preoperative ge-MRI (initial finding, IF) showed 23 avascular, 20 malperfused, and seven vital PP. Blinded radiological follow-up (second finding, SF) revealed 14 avascular, 28 malperfused, and 8 vital PP, with a concordance of 65.3% (n = 35). After correlation with the intra-op findings, a specificity of preoperative ge-MRI of 76.5% (IF) and 88.2 (SF), respectively, was revealed for exclusion of avitality. For detection of malperfusion, there was a sensitivity of 92.7% (IF) and 85.4% (SF), respectively. Complete OC was seen 12 weeks postoperatively in 37 (73.5%), partial OC in 9 (18.3%), and nonunion in 4 cases (8.2%) on CT-scans. Of the 41 malperfused/avascular PP, 31 (75.6%) progressed to complete and 6 (14.6%) to partial (at least 2 adjacent CT-layers of 2 mm) OC, with 4 nonunions. CONCLUSION: The sensitivity and specificity of ge-MRI for detection/ exclusion of malperfusion/avitality of the PP was lower than expected. Therewith, the intraoperative assessment of PP perfusion regains a high value in decision-making for the appropriate graft. We recommend preservation of the dorsal radial vascular plexus initially until the vascularity of the proximal pole has been estimated. Patient education for all contingencies and retraction options should be obtained.

Double screw versus angular stable plate fixation of scaphoid waist nonunions in combination with intraoperative extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT).

INTRODUCTION: Over the past years, different fixation techniques focused on rotational stability in order to increase stability and stimulate union rates. Additionally, extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) has gained importance in the treatment of delayed and nonunions. Purpose of this study was to compare the radiological and clinical outcome of two headless compression screws (HCS) and plate fixation in scaphoid nonunions, in combination with intraoperative high energy ESWT. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-eight patients with scaphoid nonunions were treated by using a nonvascularized bone graft from the iliac crest and stabilization with either two HCS or a volar angular stable scaphoid plate. All patients received one ESWT session with 3000 impulses and energy flux per pulse of 0.41 mJ/mm2 intraoperatively. Clinical assessment included range of motion (ROM), pain according to the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), grip strength, disability of the Arm Shoulder and Hand Score, Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation Score, Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire and modified Green O'Brien (Mayo) Wrist Score. To confirm union, a CT scan of the wrist was performed. RESULTS: Thirty-two patients returned for clinical and radiological examination. Out of these, 29 (91%) showed bony union. All patients treated with two HCS compared to 16 out of 19 (84%) patients treated by plate showed bony union on the CT scans. The difference was not statistically significant. However, at a mean follow-up interval of 34 months, no significant differences could be found in ROM, pain, grip strength and patient-reported outcome measurements between the two HCS and plate group. Height-to-length ratio and capitolunate angle improved significantly in both groups compared to preoperative. CONCLUSIONS: Scaphoid nonunion stabilization by using two HCS or angular stable volar plate fixation and intraoperative ESWT results in comparable high union rates and good functional outcome. Due to the higher rate for a secondary intervention (plate removal), HCS might be preferable as first choice, whereas the scaphoid plate fixation should be reserved for recalcitrant (substantial bone loss, humpback deformity or failed prior surgical intervention) scaphoid nonunions.

Cancellous compression bone grafting using headless screw as a strut in scaphoid nonunion by a single volar approach.

PURPOSE: An array of fixation and grafting techniques for scaphoid nonunion have been described over time, achieving varied results pertaining to union and scaphoid alignment. The aim of this study was to check for union rates and correction of scaphoid parameters achieved by our technique of using screw as a strut and cancellous compression grafting harvested from the distal radius by a single volar approach. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of all patients operated by the said technique was done from 2013 to 2019. Thirty-eight patients including 36 males and two females in the age range of 20-56 years were analyzed. Union rates, change in scaphoid alignment parameters and graft site characteristics were documented. RESULTS: Of the patients analyzed, 5/38 were nonunions of proximal pole, 19/38 of waist and 14/38 were of distal pole which included nonunions of cystic type or with humpback deformity. Patients were followed up for an average of 22.2 months and union was achieved in all cases with a mean period of 15.7 ± 3.7 weeks. There was significant improvement in the scaphoid alignment postoperatively. One case of implant migration and one case of scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse were noted. The mean duration of donor site healing was noted to be 16.9 ± 2.5 weeks except two outliers which took longer time. There were no cases of donor site fracture or other complications. CONCLUSION: Union rates, correction of scaphoid parameters and minimal complications justifies this technique as a novel one in the management of scaphoid nonunion at all levels, with minimal donor site morbidity and attained by the single volar approach.

Lateral Femoral Trochlea Osteochondral Flap Reconstruction of Proximal Pole Scaphoid Nonunions.

PURPOSE: The medial femoral trochlea flap has been described as a method of scaphoid proximal pole nonunion reconstruction when the proximal pole is deemed nonsalvageable. The lateral femoral trochlea (LFT) is an alternative donor site providing a comparable vascularized convex osteochondral flap. We describe the technique and outcomes of our first 17 cases of LFT flap reconstruction of the proximal scaphoid pole with a minimum follow-up of 14 months. METHODS: Seventeen of the first 24 patients who underwent LFT scaphoid reconstruction at 3 institutions were able to be contacted for clinical follow-up and chart reviews. We recorded patient age and sex, duration of nonunion, number of previous surgical procedures, details of surgical technique, achievement of osseous union, complications, additional postoperative procedures, preoperative and postoperative pain, and range of motion. Preoperative and postoperative scapholunate and radiolunate angles were analyzed on x-rays and achievement of osseous union on computerized tomography scans. RESULTS: The average age of patients included was 35 years (range, 16-55 years). Follow-up data were recorded at an average of 33 months (range, 14-62 months). Ten patients had previous procedures (average, 1; range, 0-2). Median duration from trauma to LFT was 3.4 years (range, 8 months-12 years) among patients who had a recognized date of injury. Osseous healing was achieved in 16 of 17 patients and confirmed by computerized tomograpy scan. Twelve patients reported complete pain relief, while 5 reported partial pain relief. Final postoperative range of motion was 59°extension (range, 30°-85°) and 50° flexion (range, 10°-80°), which was comparable to preoperative values. Preoperative (59°) and postoperative (55°) scapholunate angles were similar to normal wrists. CONCLUSION: Vascularized LFT flaps provide an alternative donor site for vascularized osteochondral reconstruction of proximal pole scaphoid nonunion. Rate of union, range of motion, and pain relief are similar to reported results with medial femoral trochlea flap reconstruction. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

Structural Versus Nonstructural Bone Grafting for the Treatment of Unstable Scaphoid Waist Nonunion Without Avascular Necrosis: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

PURPOSE: We evaluated the impact of structural versus nonstructural bone grafting on the time to union, scaphoid deformity correction, and clinical outcomes in adults with unstable scaphoid waist nonunion without avascular necrosis. We hypothesized that nonstructural grafting would provide earlier time to union, restoration of scaphoid anatomy, and equivalent clinical outcomes compared with structural grafting. METHODS: We prospectively randomized 98 patients to undergo open reduction, iliac crest bone grafting with either corticocancellous (CC group) or cancellous bone only (C-only), and internal fixation using a Herbert screw. The lateral intrascaphoid angle (LISA) and scaphoid height length ratio (HLR) were measured on wrist computed tomography scans along the scaphoid longitudinal axis before surgery and an average of 84 weeks afterward. Pain, range of motion, grip strength, and Quick-Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) score were measured before surgery and an average 84 weeks afterward. RESULTS: The trajectory of scaphoid union showed a higher union rate of the C-only group at 12, 14, and 16 weeks after surgery. However, at 24 weeks after surgery, there was no difference between the groups, The union rate was 94% in patients treated with C-only and 90% with CC grafting. In patients with preoperative LISA less than 70° and/or HLR less than 0.80 (n = 53), there were no differences between the CC and C-only grafting techniques for radiographic and clinical outcomes, QuickDASH scores, and malunion rate. In patients who had preoperative LISA greater than 70° and/or HLR greater than 0.80 (n = 45), radiographic outcome measures, range of motion, and QuickDASH scores were significantly better in the CC than in the C-only group. Scaphoid malunion was observed in 9 of 22 of C-only patients (41%) and 4 of 23 of CC patients (18%). CONCLUSIONS: The severity of the scaphoid deformity may be a factor in determining the best graft type, because this may affect the rate of successful deformity correction. Corticocancellous grafting in patients who had a high degree of scaphoid deformity provided consistent deformity correction and superior QuickDASH scores. Otherwise, C-only grafting provides earlier time to union and equivalent clinical and radiographic outcomes compared with CC grafting. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic I.

Scaphoid Nonunion Vascularized Bone Grafting in 2021: Is Avascular Necrosis the Sole Determinant?

The decision regarding the use of vascularized bone grafting (VBG) or nonvascularized bone grafting for the treatment of scaphoid nonunion (SNU) needs guidelines based on patient- and fracture-specific risk factors. Historically, the presence of avascular necrosis was viewed as the primary indication for VBG; however, avascular necrosis is not the only indicator to determine whether VBG can improve our treatment of difficult SNU cases. The methods of detecting scaphoid avascular necrosis lack consensus and accuracy, limiting their use as decision-making tools. Additionally, many other preoperative risk factors for SNU surgery failure have been reported and require careful and standardized study, including the location of nonunion in the scaphoid proximal pole, the duration of nonunion, previous failed nonunion surgery, smoking, and fracture nonunion displacement or collapse. An appropriate study size and design are needed to determine the factors that guide the use of VBG or nonvascularized bone grafting to optimize the outcomes of SNU surgery.

Pedicled vascularized bone grafts compared with xenografts in the treatment of scaphoid nonunion.

INTRODUCTION: Fractures of the scaphoid account for 60-70% of all wrist bone fractures. The results of treatment in terms of bone healing vary depending on the type and location of the fracture, the time elapsed since the injury, the type of surgical treatment. Nonunion occurs in 5-15% of the cases on average. The purpose of this paper is to compare the surgical techniques and results of treating scaphoid nonunion (SNU) with osteoplastic xenografts of bovine origin or a vascularized autograft of the distal part of the dorsal radius. METHODS: We compare two groups of patients with symptomatic SNU, treated surgically with either a vascularized graft (n = 15) or a xenograft of bovine origin (n = 15). In the presurgical stage, the demographic characteristics of the patients, the time elapsed between injury and surgery, and classification of the injury (Schonberg, Herbert-Fisher, and Geissler-Slade) were recorded. One year following surgery, bone healing, total duration of the treatment, complications, the Mayo wrist score, and answers to the DASH questionnaire were analyzed. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences between the two groups of patients were observed for bone healing (86.7% vs 80%) or functional results. A highly significant difference was observed with respect to duration of the surgical intervention in favor of xenografts. CONCLUSION: The xenograft method is simple and relatively acceptable, providing good results in terms of healing and functionality.

Four-corner fusion method using a bioabsorbable plate for scapholunate advanced collapse and scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse wrists: a case series study.

BACKGROUND: Scaphoid excision and four-corner arthrodesis is an acceptable salvage procedure for the treatment of scapholunate advanced collapse (SLAC) and scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (SNAC) wrists, since first popularized in the 1980s. We investigated the potential application of novel bioabsorbable plates and screws made of un-sintered hydroxyapatite/poly-L-lactide composite for the treatment of metacarpal fractures. We used this material for the fixation of four-corner fusions for SLAC or SNAC wrists commencing from April 2009. The purpose of this study was to clarify the controversy in the literature regarding the use of these plates. METHODS: The surgical procedures and clinical outcomes of four-corner fusions using a bioabsorbable (poly-L-lactic acid and hydroxyapatite) plate were reported. Ten patients (mean age, 59.2 years) with SLAC or SNAC wrists underwent fusions between April 2009 and June 2016. The primary diseases were scapholunate ligament injury, Preiser disease, and scaphoid pseudarthrosis. The mean postoperative follow-up period was 45.9 months (range, 12-86). RESULTS: In all patients, bone union was achieved without dislocation or pain. The mean wrist flexion and extension arc improved from 78.5 degrees before surgery to 90.5 degrees after surgery. Mean grip strength improved from 51 to 69% after surgery, and the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) score improved from 53.5 to 14.3. No complications such as infection, avascular swelling, or tendon adhesion were observed. This implant requires no removal of internal fixation devices, produces stable outcomes, and is an effective fusion technique. CONCLUSIONS: We summarized the outcomes of four-corner arthrodesis using bioabsorbable plates. Satisfactory clinical results were shown, with no obvious complications. This novel plate also serves as a good alternative for patients who are allergic to metals. Furthermore, bioabsorbable plates are advantageous as they do not require removal.

Outcomes of the Medial Femoral Trochlea Osteochondral Free Flap for Proximal Scaphoid Reconstruction.

PURPOSE: To describe the radiographic, functional, and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) of medial femoral trochlea (MFT) osteochondral free flap reconstruction of the proximal scaphoid at approximately 2 years follow-up. METHODS: Eleven patients who underwent MFT reconstruction of the proximal scaphoid returned for clinical examination, radiographs, and completion of PROs questionnaires. For another 10 patients who were unable to return, data were gathered remotely or from the medical record. RESULTS: Mean radiographic follow-up was 2.0 years and mean examination follow-up ranged from 2.6 to 2.8 years. Mean follow-up for several PROs ranged from 2.8 to 2.9 years. On average, carpal collapse did not progress, and radiolunate angle was significantly improved by 9.5°. Wrist flexion (41.6°; -6%) and extension (43.8°; -7%) were only slightly changed, and dominance-corrected postoperative pinch and grip strength were 77% and 72% of the uninjured side, respectively. Mean postoperative Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score was 10.7. In patients with both pre- and postoperative scores available, DASH significantly improved by 15 points. Knee donor-site morbidity was measured on the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS)-Sports and Recreation and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scales. The Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Global Health, Physical Function, Pain Intensity, Pain Interference, and Pain Behavior scores reflected good postoperative patient health and function and low pain levels. Higher body mass index (BMI) was found to be predictive of inferior lower extremity and global PROs. CONCLUSIONS: An MFT reconstruction of proximal scaphoid nonunion has the potential to restore normal functional radiocarpal anatomy, improve function, and relieve pain without causing wrist stiffness or weakness. Donor-site morbidity has been further delineated in this study. Caution is warranted when considering this procedure in patients with elevated BMI because they may be at increased risk for donor-site morbidity. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

Rotational Stability of Scaphoid Waist Nonunion Bone Graft and Fixation Techniques.

PURPOSE: Rotational instability of scaphoid fracture nonunions can lead to persistent nonunion. We hypothesized that a hybrid Russe technique would provide improved rotational stability compared with an instrumented corticocancellous wedge graft in a cadaver model of scaphoid nonunion. METHODS: A volar wedge osteotomy was created at the scaphoid waist in 16 scaphoids from matched-pair specimens. A wedge was inset at the osteotomy site or a 4 × 16-mm strut was inserted in the scaphoid and a screw was placed along the central axis (model 1). The construct was cyclically loaded in torsion until failure. The screw was removed and the proximal and distal poles were debrided. A matching wedge and packed cancellous bone graft or an 8 × 20-mm strut was shaped and fit inside the proximal and distal pole (model 2). A screw was placed and testing was repeated. RESULTS: In the first model, there was no significant difference in cycles to failure, target torque, or maximal torque between the strut graft and the wedge graft. Cycles to failure positively correlated with estimated bone density for the wedge graft, but not for the strut graft. In the second model, the strut graft had significantly higher cycles to failure, greater target torque, and higher maximal torque compared with the wedge graft. The number of cycles to failure was not correlated with estimated bone density for the wedge or the strut grafts. CONCLUSIONS: The hybrid Russe technique of inlay corticocancellous strut and screw fixation provides improved rotational stability compared with a wedge graft with screw fixation for a cadaver model of scaphoid waist nonunion with cystic change. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The hybrid Russe technique may provide better rotational stability for scaphoid waist nonunions when the proximal or distal scaphoid pole is compromised, such as when there is extensive cystic change, when considerable debridement is necessary, or with revision nonunion surgery.

Capitolunate Arthrodesis: A Systematic Review.

PURPOSE: To compile and review the indications, outcomes, and complications of capitolunate arthrodesis (CLA). METHODS: We performed a literature search identifying 33 articles, 6 of which met inclusion criteria, including 80 patients. Included publications contained the results of CLA with minimum 12-month follow-up between 2000 and 2018. Data were pooled and analyzed focusing on the primary outcomes of union and complications. RESULTS: Average age of patients was 48 years (range, 22-86 years), median follow-up was 34 months (range, 12-198 months), and most common indication was scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (59%). Nearly half underwent a concomitant triquetrum excision (49%). Most patients were pain-free (78%) and returned to work (92%). Grip strength and visual analog pain scale both improved after CLA. Whereas 96% fused within a reported 42 to 210 days (median, 70 days), 11% of patients had complications including nonunion (3.8%) and loose hardware (6.3%). The reoperation rate was 14%, including wrist arthrodeses and wrist arthroplasty. CONCLUSIONS: Capitolunate arthrodesis is a feasible option for scapholunate advanced collapse and scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse wrists with complications similar to those encountered in 4-corner arthrodesis. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

Palmar Radiocarpal Artery Vascularized Bone Graft for the Unstable Humpbacked Scaphoid Nonunion With an Avascular Proximal Pole.

PURPOSE: The most challenging scaphoid nonunion is the unstable nonunion with humpbacked collapse coupled with an avascular proximal pole. Dorsal distal radius pedicled vascularized bone grafts (VBGs) are contraindicated in cases of humpback deformity. The free medial femoral condyle VBG is an excellent option but it is an extensive microsurgical procedure with lengthy operative times and dual-limb incisions. In search of a local, volar, vascularized source of bone to treat this challenging subset of scaphoid nonunions, we analyzed our results with a volar distal radius bone graft based on the pedicled palmar radiocarpal artery (PRCA). METHODS: A prospective cohort of 15 unstable nonunions with avascular proximal pole fragments was treated with the PRCA graft and open reduction internal fixation. Preoperative carpal indices revealed a high degree of instability. All 15 lacked punctate bleeding from the proximal pole. All 15 patients were treated with the PRCA VBG technique and scanned with computed tomography at approximately 6 and 12 weeks to assess for interval healing. RESULTS: All nonunions healed with an average cross-sectional trabeculation score of 70% at week 6 and 84% at week 12. Sagittal intrascaphoid angles improved from 50° to 27°, radiolunate angle improved from -20° to -7°, scapholunate angle improved from 86° to 64°, and revised carpal height ratio improved from 1.45 to 1.53, indicating correction of the humpback collapse deformity. Patients were observed an average of 22 months to have no sign of further avascular necrosis. CONCLUSIONS: Pedicled PRCA-VBG successfully addresses the dual needs of the humpbacked scaphoid nonunion with an avascular proximal pole while simultaneously limiting dissection to one limb and avoiding the additional complexities of free tissue transfer. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic II.

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.

Topographical Analysis of the Hamate for Proximal Pole Scaphoid Nonunion Reconstruction.

PURPOSE: To quantify the similarity of the surface topography of the proximal hamate and proximal pole of the scaphoid for nonunion reconstruction. METHODS: Using previously acquired computed tomographic scans of the wrist of 10 patients, the 2 bones were segmented and subsequently aligned using both a manual and automated technique. Surface error between corresponding articular surfaces was computed to determine the similarity of the shape of the 2 bones. RESULTS: The median distance between the 2 articulating surfaces for each patient was 1 mm or less for all cases. Maximum distance varied from 2.7 to 9.7 mm. The automated method improved alignment such that the maximum distance was 4.1 mm. Visual review of the alignment revealed that the maximum error occurred on or around the margin of the articulating surfaces. CONCLUSIONS: In most cases, the proximal hamate appears to be a suitable donor match to reconstruct proximal pole scaphoid nonunions. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study serves as a guide to practitioners when considering the suitability of the proximal hamate autograft for unsalvageable proximal pole scaphoid nonunions.

Correction of Humpback Deformities in Patients With Scaphoid Nonunion Using 1,2-Intercompartmental Supraretinacular Artery Pedicled Vascularized Bone Grafting With a Dorsoradial Approach.

PURPOSE: Although 1,2-intercompartmental supraretinacular artery (1,2-ICSRA)-based vascularized bone grafting (VBG) has gained popularity in the treatment of scaphoid nonunion, correcting humpback deformities with this technique remains challenging. The purpose of this retrospective study was to determine the possibility of correcting humpback deformities using a 1,2-ICSRA VBG with a dorsoradial approach. METHODS: We treated 25 patients with scaphoid nonunion using a 1,2-ICSRA VBG between January 2007 and December 2017. For those with a humpback deformity, we performed vascularized wedge grafting from the dorsoradial side, instead of inlay bone grafting from the dorsal or volar side of the scaphoid. After excluding patients with scaphoid nonunion without a humpback deformity and those followed up for less than 6 months, we reviewed the imaging results and union rate in the remaining 19 patients (18 men and 1 woman). The nonunion sites and patient distribution were as follows: proximal one-third, 2; waist, 16; and distal one-third, 1. RESULTS: The union rate at the last follow-up performed a minimum of 6 months after the intervention was 94.7%. The correction was adequate in 17 patients and inadequate in 2 patients. The lateral intrascaphoid, radiolunate, and scapholunate angles were improved. CONCLUSIONS: Humpback and dorsal intercalated segmental instability deformities can be corrected adequately using a 1,2-ICSRA VBG with a dorsoradial approach. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.