Radioscapholunate Fusion Using a Volarly Placed Plate for Treating Post-Traumatic Radiocarpal Joint Arthritis after a...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Hand and Wrist Surgery
• Trauma Surgery

Background:

• Optimal treatment for radiocarpal arthritis remains debated.
• Post-traumatic arthritis following distal radius fractures commonly affects the radiocarpal joint.
• Radioscapholunate (RSL) fusion is a potential surgical intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of volar plate radioscapholunate (RSL) fusion.
• To compare pre- and postoperative outcomes including range of motion (ROM), pain, strength, and function.
• To assess fusion rates following RSL arthrodesis.

Main Methods:

• Prospective single-center study from January 2022 to December 2024.
• Nine patients with post-traumatic radiocarpal arthritis underwent RSL fusion via volar plate.
• Outcomes measured included pinch/grip strength, DASH scores, VAS pain, and wrist ROM.

Main Results:

• All patients achieved successful fusion with no complications.
• Significant improvements in grip strength (91% recovery), pinch strength, and pain relief (VAS 74.3 to 5.0) were observed.
• Wrist pronation and supination improved significantly; radial and ulnar deviation showed gradual improvement.

Conclusions:

• Volar plate RSL fusion is a reliable surgical option for post-traumatic radiocarpal arthritis.
• The procedure yields good clinical, functional, and radiological outcomes.
• This technique effectively manages arthritis following distal radius fractures.