Utilization of the extensor retinaculum in the radiocarpal joint of rheumatoid wrists

Synovectomy and debridement were combined with use of pedicled flaps of the extensor retinaculum as interposition material in the radiocarpal joint to cover the eroded articular surfaces of the radius and ulna in rheumatoid wrists. The technique was devised for the purpose of preventing postoperative osseous ankylosis of the radiocarpal joint. Results were satisfactory in 13 of 17 wrists operated on during the period from 1974 to 1979 and followed up for 38 to 84 months (average, 61 months).