Tendon ball arthroplasty and proximal carpal stabilization with tendon graft for advanced Kienböck's disease

This study reports the surgical technique and outcomes of tendon ball arthroplasty combined with proximal carpal stabilization using the extensor carpi radialis longus tendon for treating advanced Kienböck's disease. The collapsed lunate is excised and a tendon ball inserted as a spacer. A distally based extensor carpi radials longus graft is passed through the scaphoid, tendon ball and triquetrum, reconstructing the proximal carpal row. In total, 16 patients were included and the mean follow-up was 25 months. Pain improved from 5.6 preoperatively to 1.3 postoperatively on a 10-point visual analogue scale. Mean wrist motion improved by 17.8° and grip strength compared with the non-operative side increased by 22.1% on average. Radiographic outcomes demonstrated correction of scaphoid flexion and carpal height ratio. The modified tendon ball arthroplasty may be an alternative wrist salvage procedure for the treatment of advanced Kienböck's disease.Level of evidence: IV.