Scaphoidectomy and Capsulodesis for SNAC or SLAC Stage II.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Hand and Wrist Surgery
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Scapholunate advanced collapse (SLAC) and scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (SNAC) are common wrist arthritis types.
• Stage II SLAC/SNAC involves radiocarpal arthritis, sparing midcarpal and radiolunate joints.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of scaphoidectomy plus capsulorrhaphy for stage II SLAC/SNAC wrist arthritis.
• To assess pain relief and functional improvement without arthrodesis.

Main Methods:

• Eight patients with stage II SLAC/SNAC underwent scaphoidectomy and capsulorrhaphy.
• Pain scores, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores, and grip strength were measured pre- and post-operatively.

Main Results:

• Postoperative pain scores significantly improved from 8.5 to 2.4.
• Average DASH score was 21.
• Grip strength increased from 18 to 28 kg (81% of the contralateral side).

Conclusions:

• Scaphoidectomy plus capsulorrhaphy is a viable surgical option for stage II SLAC/SNAC wrist arthritis.
• The procedure offers pain relief and functional restoration without compromising radiolunate articulation or requiring fusion.