Wrist-arthroscopy treatment of carpal bone cysts

To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and clinical outcomes of wrist arthroscopy in the management of intraosseous carpal bone cysts through a retrospective analysis of surgical cases.

A case series analysis was performed on 14 patients with intraosseous carpal bone cysts treated in the Department of Hand and Foot Surgery at Qilu Hospital of Shandong University between January 2019 and August 2022. The cyst distribution was as follows: 11 cases in the lunate bone, 1 case involving both the scaphoid and lunate bones, 1 case in the scaphoid bone, and 1 case in the hamate bone. Preoperative imaging assessments included standard radiography (X-ray), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). All patients underwent wrist arthroscopic cyst debridement with autologous iliac bone grafting. Intraoperative evaluation of wrist stability was performed, followed by Kirschner wire fixation or external fixation as indicated. Pathological specimens were obtained for histopathological examination. Postoperative rehabilitation protocols were implemented under supervised guidance.

All patients were followed up for 3-6 months postoperatively. Following structured rehabilitation, significant alleviation of wrist pain was observed in all cases, with full functional recovery enabling a return to normal occupational activities.

Wrist arthroscopic surgery combined with bone grafting represents an effective treatment modality for intraosseous carpal bone cysts, facilitating accurate pathological diagnosis and promoting rapid functional recovery when supplemented with postoperative rehabilitation.