A quantitative approach to total wrist arthroplasty: development of a "precentered" total wrist prosthesis

The major problem with total wrist arthroplasty has been "imbalance" resulting from a lack of information on where to position the axes of motion of the prosthesis. This paper presents a precise method for determining the optimal location for the axes of motion of the prosthesis in any patient's wrist. It is based on a study of the normal biomechanics and was tested clinically in ten patients. The resultant "balance" and range of motion were excellent. A new prosthesis design evolved from this work which should simplify the operative procedure and make the results more reliable.