Scapholunate Instability: Diagnosis and Management - Classification and Treatment Considerations - Part 2.

Intervention for scapholunate instability is aimed at halting the degenerative process by restoring ligament integrity and normalizing carpal kinematics. Part 1 of this Current Concepts article reviewed the anatomy, kinematics, and biomechanical properties of the scapholunate ligament as well as its critical stabilizers. In this section, we provide a foundation for understanding the spectrum of scapholunate ligament instability and incorporate meaningful new anatomical insights that influence treatment considerations. These updates clarify the importance of the critical stabilizers of the scapholunate interval, ligament-specific considerations in scapholunate ligament reconstruction, and the risks of ligament disinsertion when surgically exposing the dorsal wrist. We propose a ligament-based treatment algorithm based on the stage of injury, degree and nature of ligament damage, and presence of arthritic changes.

Scapholunate Instability: Diagnosis and Management - Anatomy, Kinematics, and Clinical Assessment - Part I.

Injuries to the scapholunate joint are the most frequent cause of carpal instability. The sequelae of these injuries account for considerable morbidity, and if left untreated, may lead to scapholunate advanced collapse and progressive deterioration of the carpus. Rupture of the scapholunate interosseous ligament and its critical stabilizers causes dyssynchronous motion between the scaphoid and lunate. Additional ligament injury or attenuation leads to rotary subluxation of the scaphoid and increased scapholunate gap. Intervention for scapholunate instability is aimed at halting the degenerative process by restoring ligament integrity and normalizing carpal kinematics. In the first section of this review, we discuss the anatomy, kinematics, and biomechanical properties of the scapholunate ligament as well as its critical ligament stabilizers. We provide a foundation for understanding the spectrum of scapholunate ligament instability and incorporate meaningful new anatomical insights that influence treatment considerations. The purpose is to provide an update regarding the anatomy of the scapholunate ligament complex, importance of the critical ligament stabilizers of the proximal carpal row, introduction of safe technique to surgically expose the scaphoid and lunate, as well as pathoanatomy as it pertains to the treatment of scapholunate dissociation. In the second section of this review, we propose a novel ligament-based treatment algorithm based on the stage of injury, degree and nature of ligament damage, and presence of arthritic changes.

Imaging appearance of post-arthroscopic radiocarpal chondrolysis: comparison with osteoarthritis associated with scapholunate dissociation.

BACKGROUND: Since the diagnosis of post-arthroscopic chondrolysis is very difficult, it can be underdiagnosed and confused with other diseases in clinical practice. PURPOSE: To propose imaging features of post-arthroscopic radiocarpal chondrolysis (PRCC) and to compare these with osteoarthritis associated with scapholunate dissociation which are the most common misdiagnoses of PRCC. MATERIAL AND METHODS: To identify missed diagnoses of PRCC, 994 magnetic resonance imaging scans performed in 910 patients were retrospectively reviewed. After the identification of 73 patients who exhibited significant radiocarpal cartilage loss, 11 were diagnosed with PRCC. Since scapholunate advanced collapse was the most common incorrect diagnosis of PRCC (4/11), the imaging findings were compared among the 11 patients with PRCC and 14 patients with osteoarthritis caused by scapholunate dissociation who were diagnosed in the same period. The following imaging features were evaluated: scapholunate dissociation; the center of disease and grade of radiocarpal joint destruction; characteristics of bone marrow edema; the presence of radial styloid and distal scaphoid osteophytes; and the extent of joint effusion and synovitis. RESULTS: The imaging diagnosis of PRCC was significantly differentiated from osteoarthritis associated with scapholunate dissociation based on occurrence at a younger age, bone marrow edema crossing the joint, center of disease in the proximal radioscaphoid joint, and absence of radial styloid and scaphoid osteophytes (P < 0.05). PRCC occasionally presented with arch-shape bone marrow edema based on the proximal carpal row. CONCLUSION: The diagnosis of PRCC can be aided if its characteristic imaging findings are differentiated from other disease entities in patients with a history of arthroscopy.

The Biomechanical Effects of Simulated Radioscapholunate Fusion With Distal Scaphoidectomy, 4-Corner Fusion With Complete Scaphoidectomy, and Proximal Row Carpectomy Compared to the Native Wrist.

PURPOSE: To determine the effect of simulated radioscapholunate fusion with distal scaphoid excision (RSLF+DSE), 4-corner fusion with scaphoidectomy (4-CF), and proximal row carpectomy (PRC) on the wrist's range of motion (ROM), contact pressure, and contact force in a cadaveric model. METHODS: Ten freshly frozen cadaveric wrists were tested under 4 sequential conditions: native wrist, RSLF+DSE, 4-CF, and PRC. The simulated fusions were performed using two 1.6-mm Kirschner wires. The ROM in the flexion-extension and radioulnar deviation planes was evaluated. Contact area, contact pressure, and contact force were measured at the scaphocapitolunate joint for the RSLF+DSE simulation and radiocarpal joint for the 4-CF and PRC simulations. Mechanical testing was performed using a 35-N uniaxial load and pressure-sensitive film. RESULTS: The RSLF+DSE and 4-CF groups had a decreased wrist arc ROM compared with the native wrist. The PRC group had a greater wrist arc ROM compared with the RSLF+DSE and 4-CF groups, but compared to the native wrist, it demonstrated a mildly decreased wrist arc ROM. The carpal pressure and contact force were significantly increased in the RSLF+DSE, 4-CF, and PRC groups compared with those in the native wrist. The RSLF+DSE group had the smallest increase in the carpal pressure and contact force, whereas the PRC group had the greatest increase. CONCLUSIONS: Our study validates previous findings that PRC is motion-conserving but has the greatest contact force, whereas RSLF-DSE and 4-CF may cause a decrease in the ROM but have lower contact forces. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Understanding the underlying native wrist biomechanics and alterations following different surgical treatments may assist hand surgeons in their clinical decision making for the treatment of stage II scapholunate advanced collapse.

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.

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.

Cerclage Fusion Technique for 4-Corner Arthrodesis.

Four-corner arthrodesis is commonly performed for symptomatic scapholunate advanced collapse and scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse. Potential complications associated with current techniques include nonunion, hardware issues, and dorsal impingement. A method for achieving 4-corner arthrodesis with strong internal fixation and effective compression while avoiding dorsal and cartilage-bearing surfaces can maximize the benefits of the fusion while minimizing the aforementioned complications. We present a cerclage fusion technique for achieving 4-corner arthrodesis. Proposed benefits of this technique include ease of fixation placement in the coronal plane, inclusion of a large surface area for compression, avoidance of dorsal and cartilage-bearing surfaces, and the ability to adjust sagittal alignment in the midcarpal joint.

Treatment Outcomes of 4-Corner Arthrodesis for Patients With Advanced Carpal Collapse: An Average of 4 Years' Follow-Up Comparing 2 Different Plate Types.

PURPOSE: The objective was to investigate the clinical and subjective outcomes of patients after 4-corner arthrodesis (FCA) for scapholunate advanced collapse (SLAC) or scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (SNAC) and to analyze complications. Furthermore, we compared the long-term results of a first-generation nonlocking plate (Spider) and a plate with a locking screw design (Flower plate). METHODS: In a retrospective cohort study, we included 39 patients with stage II or III SLAC or SNAC who underwent FCA. Twenty wrists were treated with a nonlocking plate and 19 with a locking plate. Patients completed the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) and the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ). Active range of wrist motion, radiological signs such as impingement, and signs of implant loosening and nonunion, as well as postoperative complications, were assessed. RESULTS: After a median postoperative follow-up time of 4.1 years, the PRWE score was 18 and the total MHQ score 79. Patient-reported and clinical outcomes were similar for the 2 plate types. Wrists fixed with the nonlocking plate had more dorsal impingements and loosening than wrists fixed with a locking plate. One nonunion was noted in the nonlocking plate group, and a single case of implant failure was seen for each plate type. A total of 5 patients with a nonlocking plate incurred postoperative complications that required further medical treatment. CONCLUSIONS: FCA for patients with stage II or III SLAC or SNAC yields positive clinical and subjective outcomes. Based on the high complication rate following FCA with a nonlocking plate, we no longer use this implant and recommend fixation with a locking screw plate. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

Proximal Row Carpectomy Using Decellularized Dermal Allograft.

Wrist arthritis is a common problem. When managed early, motion-sparing procedures can be performed with successful outcomes. Proximal row carpectomy (PRC) has demonstrated good functional results and high patient satisfaction with up to 20-year follow-up. The majority of patients with longer follow-up have, however, exhibited radiographic signs of progressive degeneration of the radiocapitate space. Although radiographic changes have not been shown to correlate with wrist pain and function, it remains a concern and questions the durability of the radiocapitate articulation with continued patient follow-up, especially those who underwent the original procedure at a younger age. Several modifications have been proposed and used to address this concern, including radiocapitate arthroplasty, with either distal radius hemiarthroplasty or tissue interposition grafts. Theoretical benefits to these adjuncts include minimizing wear and preserving the radiocapitate articulation as well as expanding the utility of a PRC even in the setting of a wrist with arthritis of the capitate head. We describe our surgical technique for managing radiocarpal arthritis with PRC and decellularized dermal allograft. Dermal matrix allografts have proved to be a safe adjunct in various orthopedic procedures, including those in the wrist and hand. This technique adds another surgical option for the treatment of radiocarpal arthritis and expands the indications for PRC to include select patients with degeneration of the capitate head.

A Cadaver Investigation of Screw Purchase With 2 Retrograde Techniques for Capitolunate Arthrodesis.

PURPOSE: To examine the hypothesis that the amount of bone purchase within the lunate is greater when using a technique for intermetacarpal retrograde screw placement across the capitolunate joint than when using a dorsal capitate technique. METHODS: Seven fresh cadaver limbs were dissected. We exposed the carpus and scaphoidectomy and performed selective capitolunate decortication. We compared the technique of dorsal capitate placement of headless compression screws with intermetacarpal placement by measuring the depth of purchase in the lunate. RESULTS: Drill hole depths in the lunate were greater using the intermetacarpal technique versus the dorsal capitate technique; the average depth was 9.0 and 6.4 mm, respectively. The calculated number of threads was also greater with the intermetacarpal technique than with the dorsal capitate technique (15 vs 9 threads, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: The intermetacarpal technique for retrograde headless compression screw placement in a capitolunate arthrodesis provided a greater depth of purchase in the lunate portion of the construct. It also afforded more ease of placement than previously described antegrade techniques without the risk of hardware migration into the radiocarpal joint. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The knowledge gained from this study may help guide surgeons to choose a technique for retrograde placement of headless compression screws in capitolunate arthrodesis to gain better purchase within the lunate.

Proximal Row Carpectomy.

Proximal row carpectomy (PRC) has earned a respected place in the hand surgeon's armamentarium. Prerequisites for the standard PRC are good cartilage on the proximal pole of capitate and in the lunate fossa of radius. If there is cartilage damage on the proximal pole of capitate, the modification of Salomon and Eaton is a reasonable alternative to the standard PRC. The most important surgical step is preservation of the radioscaphocapitate ligament. Good long-term results can be achieved, and with careful patient selection the operation can be done successfully in people who use their hands for heavy work.

Bicolumnar intercarpal arthrodesis: minimum 2-year follow-up.

PURPOSE: To determine greater than 2-year outcomes for combined lunate-capitate and triquetrum-hamate arthrodeses. METHODS: We identified 16 patients who underwent scaphoid excision and combined arthrodeses of the lunate-capitate and triquetrum-hamate joints (bicolumnar arthrodesis) from 2007 to 2010. Eleven patients returned for follow-up evaluation, which included measurement of operative and contralateral control wrist flexion, extension, and grip strength, and completion of a patient-reported outcomes questionnaire, visual analog scale pain assessment, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire. Radiographs of each patient were reviewed for evidence of union. Complications including nonunion and hardware migration were recorded. RESULTS: Wrist flexion-extension in the operative wrist was 68% of the contralateral control wrist. Grip strength of the operative wrist was 97% of the contralateral wrist. All 11 patients had radiographic bicolumnar union; 8 patients had spontaneous radiographic fusion of the capitohamate joint. One patient required capitolunate screw removal for migration despite having evidence of union. CONCLUSIONS: Results from scaphoid excision and bicolumnar intercarpal arthrodesis are comparable to those reported for traditional scaphoid excision and 4-corner arthrodesis, with a similar loss of wrist range of motion and with possible preservation of better grip strength in the operative wrist. Advantages of this modification include preservation of the normal lunate-triquetrum and capitate-hamate anatomic relationships and simplification of operative technique. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

Proximal row carpectomy versus scaphoid excision and intercarpal arthrodesis: intraoperative assessment and procedure selection.

PURPOSE: To demonstrate the relative frequency of degenerative changes of the radiolunate and capitolunate joints in osteoarthritis of the wrist as seen by direct visualization, and to demonstrate the disparity between findings on preoperative radiographs and direct visualization. METHODS: We reviewed 18 consecutive patients who underwent either a proximal row carpectomy (PRC) or a scaphoid excision and 4-corner arthrodesis (SEFCA) for symptomatic degenerative arthritis of the wrist. In each case, the articular surfaces of the radiolunate and capitolunate joints were inspected intraoperatively; based on the relative degree of degenerative changes, either a PRC or an SEFCA was performed. We compared preoperative radiographs and the predicted procedure based on them with intraoperative findings and the procedure actually performed. RESULTS: Of 18 wrists, 15 had more severe degenerative changes on the proximal articular surface of the lunate than on the capitate head and underwent a PRC; the remaining 3 had more severe changes on the capitate head than on the proximal surface of the lunate and underwent an SEFCA. In contrast, preoperative radiographs in 13 of the 18 cases revealed degenerative changes at the capitolunate joint and minimal or no changes at the radiolunate joint. An SEFCA was the predicted procedure in all 13, but was performed in 3. The remaining 10 underwent a PRC. CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative radiographs did not correlate well with intraoperative findings in the assessment of degenerative changes at the radiolunate and capitolunate joints, with changes at the radiolunate joint often underestimated. Our findings contradict the widely held contention that the radiolunate joint is consistently spared in osteoarthritis. The lunate fossa of the radius appears to be consistently spared, but not the proximal surface of the lunate. We recommend intraoperative assessment of the articular surfaces, rather than preoperative radiographs, for selection of the surgical procedure. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

Snapping Wrist From Bowstringing of the Digital Flexors After Carpal Tunnel Release: A Case Report.

Symptomatic bowstringing of digital flexor tendons is a rare complication of carpal tunnel release (CTR). Two weeks after open CTR, a 47-year-old man with severe carpal tunnel syndrome had relief of his preoperative median paresthesia but complained of new-onset painful snapping of the wrist and transient ulnar paresthesia occurring with wrist dorsiflexion and concomitant digital flexion. Physical examination localized the audible snapping to the hook of hamate (HOH) where manual pressure eliminated the wrist motion-induced snapping and the associated ulnar paresthesia. Wrist radiographs showed stage III scapholunate advanced collapse (SLAC) with marked palmar subluxation of the lunate. Wrist magnetic resonance imaging revealed palmar and ulnar subluxation of the digital flexors over the HOH due to the mass effect of the palmarly displaced lunate and the chronic carpal malalignment. The snapping wrist and accompanying ulnar paresthesia resolved after HOH excision, and no additional treatment for the asymptomatic SLAC wrist deformity was required. Satisfactory clinical outcome was observed at 5-year follow-up.

Early motion following 4-corner arthrodesis using cannulated compression screws: a biomechanical study.

PURPOSE: To assess the ability of headless compression screws to maintain immobile bony contact throughout wrist cycling following simulated 4-corner arthrodesis. Our hypothesis was that the screw constructs would not permit displacement of the carpal bones and, therefore, could tolerate early postoperative range of motion in vivo. METHODS: Using 6 matched-paired cadaveric arms, 4-corner arthrodesis was performed using an all-cannulated compression screw construct (capitolunate, lunotriquetral, and triquetrohamate screws) or a partial compression screw combined with partial K-wire construct (2 crossing capitolunate screws with the lunotriquetral and triquetrohamate interfaces immobilized with 2 K-wires). Wrists were mounted and cycled 5,000 times. Intercarpal distances were measured at 0, 100, 1,000, and 5,000 cycles at fixed points of passive flexion. Because previously published studies considered intercarpal distances of greater than 1 mm as significant, we defined fixation failure as greater than 0.5 mm gapping. RESULTS: Neither screw construct showed any significant intercarpal gapping at any point during the experimental cycling (largest average intercarpal gapping was 0.2 mm). There were no significant differences between the constructs regarding gapping at any point. CONCLUSIONS: In this biomechanical model, cannulated compression screws effectively resist significant intercarpal gapping during early motion after 4-corner arthrodesis. This may allow for immediate postoperative range of motion. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Early gentle range of motion may be possible immediately following 4-corner arthrodesis using a construct consisting of headless compression screws.

Scapholunate Ligament Insufficiency in a Patient with Scaphocapitate Coalition.

We report a case of chronic scapholunate ligament insufficiency in a patient with scaphocapitate coalition. After more than 4 years of mild symptoms, there was no radiological evidence of progression to scapholunate advanced collapse in spite of minimal load-bearing repetitive physical activities undertaken by the patient as a professional guitarist. We believe that scaphocapitate coalition could contribute to mitigate the progression to scapholunate advanced collapse by preventing abnormal flexion of the scaphoid once the ligament is not competent anymore. The biomechanical and surgical implications of this type of carpal coalition are also discussed.

Total Wrist Arthroplasty for Posttraumatic Wrist Osteoarthritis: A Cohort Study Comparing Three Indications.

Scapholunate ligament ruptures and scaphoid nonunion with consecutive advanced collapse (SLAC and SNAC wrists) as well as intra-articular distal radius fractures (DRF) are prone to cause posttraumatic wrist osteoarthritis. The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of these indications for total wrist arthroplasty. We included 13, 11, and 8 patients with an overall mean age of 60 ± 9 years in the SLAC, SNAC, and DRF cohort, respectively. After an average follow-up period of 6 ± 3 years, we found no difference between our groups regarding pain levels and functional scores, although these parameters significantly improved compared to preoperative parameters. Complication and revision rates revealed no significant difference. However, significantly higher extension, arc of range of motion values in the flexion-extension, as well as in radial-ulnar deviation plain were detected in the SLAC compared to the DRF group. Finally, TWA proved to show a beneficial performance in all three investigated indications.

The never-ending battle between proximal row carpectomy and four corner arthrodesis: A systematic review and meta-analysis for the final verdict.

While scaphoid excision combined with Four Corner Arthrodesis (FCA) or Proximal Row Carpectomy (PRC) is a commonly-used salvage procedures to treat type two and type three Scapholunate Advanced Collapse (SLAC) and Scaphoid Nonunion Advanced Collapse (SNAC)-induced degenerative arthritis, controversy remains over which treatment intervention provides superior outcomes. We searched for articles comparing a range of motion, grip strength, complications requiring reoperation, conversion to wrist arthrodesis, pain, and disability of shoulder and arm scores between FCA and PRC-treated patients. The risk of bias was assessed using the National Institutes of Health (NIH) quality assessment tool. We performed a meta-analysis using Random-Effects Models. Fifteen articles (10 retrospective, 2 cross-sectional, 1 prospective, and 2 randomized trials) were included. There was no significant difference between PRC and FCA in any of the different outcome measures. The risk of bias was found consistently high across all studies. Despite the lack of high-quality evidence, based on existing literature, we recommend PRC as the preferred choice of treatment because of the simplicity of the surgical procedure, lack of hardware-related complications, and comparable long-term outcomes. Level of evidence: III - Therapeutic.

The Epidemiology of Scapholunate Advanced Collapse.

Background: Scapholunate advanced collapse (SLAC) is the most common pattern of wrist arthritis. Sparse data exist regarding the SLAC wrist pattern of arthritis. This study aimed to document the epidemiology of advanced SLAC in terms of patients' sociodemographics and possible association with trauma. Methods: Sixty-one patients with severe SLAC wrist were included. Baseline sociodemographic characteristics were reviewed. To evaluate the relationship to injury, this group of cases was compared with a control group of 61 patients with first carpometacarpal osteoarthritis (CMC OA). The following data were collected for both groups: age, gender, history of traumatic injury, history of manual labor, duration of symptoms, and dominant hand involvement. Pearson chi-square tests for categorical variables and independent samples t test for continuous variables were performed to determine differences between groups. Results: Patients with SLAC wrist were more likely to be male (80.3% vs 31.1%; p<0.001), have a history of a traumatic injury (69.5% vs 25.9%, P < .001), have longer symptom duration (10.3 ± 13.3 vs 3.5 ± 2.5 years, P = .001), be involved in a manual labor job (49.0% vs 20.0%, P = .002), and be younger (53.1 ± 10.4 vs 58.3 ± 9.8; P = .006) compared with patients with CMC OA. There was no difference in dominant hand involvement (49.2% vs 53.3%; P = .571) between the groups. Conclusions: This study identified the characteristics of patients with advanced SLAC wrist. Compared with a control cohort of CMC OA, patients with SLAC wrist were more likely to be male, have a history of a traumatic injury, and be younger.

Four-corner arthrodesis with a dorsal locking plate: 4-9-year follow-up.

We report the outcomes of four-corner arthrodesis for advanced wrist collapse in 50 patients (51 wrists) using a dorsal locking plate. At a mean follow-up of 6 years (range 4-9), pain was significantly reduced and wrist function was significantly improved compared with preoperative status. After four-corner arthrodesis, grip strength was 80% of the contralateral side, and wrist motion averaged 50° flexion-extension and 30° radioulnar deviation. Immobilization time was 5 weeks (4-6) and sick-leave was 3 months (2-5) following surgery. There were seven nonunions (14%) that underwent repeat arthrodesis. Three wrists were later converted to total arthrodesis due to persisting pain. Radiographic dorsal impingement was found in five wrists after four-corner arthrodesis and did not require reoperation. The outcomes appear not remarkably different from those reported using other fixation methods other than an apparent earlier return to activities.Level of evidence: IV.