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Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
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Wrist Hemiarthroplasty
Maureen A O'Shaughnessy1, Timothy J Westbrooks1
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, 740 South Limestone, Lexington, KY 40356, USA.
Hand Clinics
|March 21, 2026
Summary
Wrist hemiarthroplasty offers a joint-sparing alternative to total wrist arthroplasty, potentially benefiting active patients by avoiding complications and activity limitations. This review explores its surgical techniques, indications, and outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Wrist hemiarthroplasty involves partial replacement of the radiocarpal joint.
- It can be performed on the radial side, with proximal row carpectomy, or on the carpal side.
- The primary goal is to mitigate risks associated with total wrist arthroplasty.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current literature on wrist hemiarthroplasty.
- To discuss various surgical approaches, patient indications, and treatment outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of wrist hemiarthroplasty studies.
- Analysis of surgical techniques, indications, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Wrist hemiarthroplasty serves as an alternative to total wrist arthroplasty.
- It may be particularly suitable for younger, active individuals.
- Potential to avoid complications and activity restrictions common with total joint replacement.
Conclusions:
- Wrist hemiarthroplasty is a viable surgical option for specific wrist pathologies.
- It presents a potentially advantageous solution for active patients seeking to maintain function.
- Further research into long-term outcomes is warranted.

