Osteochondral resurfacing with proximal row carpectomy: 8-year follow-up

Degenerative arthrosis of the proximal row remains a challenging problem for both patients and surgeons. Proximal row carpectomy is a motion-preserving treatment option, with studies documenting acceptable long-term outcomes. Proximal row carpectomy is an attractive option because there is no need for fusion to occur between the carpal bones, as in 4-corner fusion. As a result, laborers and smokers may be able to return to work more quickly. However, capitate chondrosis traditionally has been considered a contraindication to proximal row carpectomy. The goal of this study was to review the long-term follow-up of patients who underwent osteochondral resurfacing of capitate chondrosis performed in the same setting as proximal row carpectomy. Final follow-up was obtained in 5 of 8 (63%) patients at an average of 101 months (range, 99-102) after surgery. Grip strength improved at each time point, but wrist flexion and extension decreased. The average Mayo Wrist Score was 74 (range, 65-85) and remained stable or improved in all patients between the 18-month visit and the final visit. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score was unchanged at final follow-up compared with 18-month follow-up (P=.7). This study found that osteochondral resurfacing of the capitate in the setting of proximal row carpectomy for patients with capitate chondrosis offers good outcomes compared with standard proximal row carpectomy in patients without capitate chondrosis on patient-directed outcome tools (DASH, Mayo Wrist Score) at long-term follow-up of 101 months.