Total Wrist Arthroplasty

Total wrist arthroplasty using current design implants has evolved into a fairly predictable procedure for rheumatoid, osteoarthritic, and posttraumatic patients. Although complications can occur, the incidence of these has dropped over the past decade with implant design modifications. The article summarizes the current use of total wrist arthroplasty and touches on issues of revision surgery, secondary fusion, complications, wrist fusion takedown, and radiolucency around implants. Technical tips are also provided for both primary and revision surgery.