Lunotriquetral arthrodesis using cancellous bone graft

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Hand and Wrist Surgery
• Musculoskeletal Research

Background:

• Lunotriquetral arthrodesis traditionally has low fusion rates without permanent fixation or prolonged immobilization.
• Symptomatic lunotriquetral instability and degenerative arthritis are common indications for surgical intervention.
• Conservative treatments often precede surgical consideration for these wrist conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a novel technique for lunotriquetral arthrodesis using cancellous bone graft and K-wire fixation.
• To assess the efficacy of this technique in achieving primary fusion and improving patient function.
• To determine the rates of pain relief and return to work following the procedure.

Main Methods:

• 26 lunotriquetral arthrodeses were performed in 24 patients.
• A technique involving cancellous bone graft and parallel K-wire fixation was employed.
• Patients with symptomatic lunotriquetral instability and degenerative arthritis were included.

Main Results:

• Primary fusion was achieved in all 26 wrists within an average of 50 days.
• Postoperative range of motion (flexion/extension, radial/ulnar deviation) approached that of unaffected wrists.
• 83% of patients reported good or very good pain relief, with 88% returning to the workforce.

Conclusions:

• The described technique offers reliable and effective lunotriquetral fusion without permanent internal fixation.
• This method adheres to intercarpal arthrodesis principles, providing significant pain relief and functional recovery.
• The use of bone graft and K-wire fixation presents a viable alternative for treating lunotriquetral joint pathology.