Scaphotrapeziotrapezoid arthrodesis for the treatment of Lichtman stage 3B Kienböck disease

We evaluated the results clinically and radiologically of 10 cases of Lichtman stage 3B Kienböck disease treated by scaphotrapeziotrapezoid (STT) arthrodesis alone. We retrospectively reviewed pain, range of movement, grip strength, and physical examination of the wrist as well as subjective satisfaction. We measured carpal height ratio and radioscaphoid angle. The median follow-up period was 53 months (range 10-109). At final evaluation, eight patients reported no pain and two had mild pain. Median range of movement was 60degrees(range 45-70degrees) in extension, 33degrees (range 20-45degrees) in flexion without appreciable loss. Grip strength had improved considerably. Employed patients went back to work within four months. The median final radioscaphoid angle was 67degrees (range 55-81degrees). STT arthrodesis done properly for the right indications for Lichtman stage 3B Kienböck disease achieves quick relief of pain and excellent function of the wrist.