Patient-rated long-term results after complete denervation of the wrist

The aim of this study was to examine the long-term results after the denervation of the wrist. Between 1977 and 2001, we treated 375 patients in our clinic. The mean age was 43.5 years; 81% were male and 19% female. The long-term results were assessed by a questionnaire assessing pain on a visual analog scale and patient satisfaction and by the DASH questionnaire. After a mean follow-up of 12.23 years, we found an overall pain reduction of 52.1%. In 67.7% of the patients, we found a relief of pain: of these, 44% are free of pain until today and 56% were temporarily asymptomatic. Patients with a painful osteoarthritic condition without dynamic instability and good range of motion are ideal candidates to benefit from the denervation. The complete denervation of the wrist is an effective treatment option in patients with painful wrist conditions to reduce pain and improve the overall function.