[Resection of the proximal carpal bones in the sequelae of scaphoid fractures]

Proximal row carpectomy has precise indications in cases of severe sequelae of scaphoid fractures. This procedure may be indicated either as first-line treatment in a case of advanced pseudarthrosis with osteoarthritis, particularly radio-scaphoid, or secondarily after scaphoid pseudarthrosis has been unsuccessfully treated by other methods. It is essential to make sure that the head of the capitatum and the radial surface of the lunate bone have a satisfactory appearance on plain X-rays, MRI and occasionally arthroscopy. The overall results of this operation which retains wrist movements and which also preserves a good grip strength are very encouraging, as demonstrated by the series of 48 cases of sequelae of scAphoid fractures treated by this technique.