Poor function after nonoperative treatment of Kienböck's disease

Twenty-five wrist joints treated with immobilization for Kienböck's disease were reexamined after 8 (1-11) years. Six patients had no pain, but 14 had daily problems with the wrist, and of these, 7 had to change their occupation. Five wrist joints were arthrodesed during the follow-up period. We conclude that nonoperative treatment of Kienböck's disease is ineffective.