[Osteomalacia of the semilunar bone]

The aetiology of avascular necrosis of the carpal lunate remains unknown. Kienböck's disease was long misinterpreted as gout, tendinitis or a sequela of subluxation. The diagnosis is obtained by x-ray of the wrist, which should not be delayed in cases of diffuse wrist pain, limitation of motion, or reduced strength in the hand. A good prognosis is closely correlated to early diagnosis. This review is focused on new biomechanical analyses and treatment methods for use in cases of Kienböck's disease.