Multiple stapling for wrist arthrodesis in the nonrheumatoid patient

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Hand and Wrist Surgery

Background:

• Wrist fusion (arthrodesis) is a common procedure for debilitating wrist conditions.
• Traditional methods often involve corticocancellous bone grafting and extensive immobilization, carrying potential complications and patient morbidity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of staple fixation alone for wrist fusion.
• To assess fusion rates, complications, and patient outcomes compared to traditional techniques.

Main Methods:

• A consecutive series of 26 wrist fusions using only staple fixation were reviewed.
• Follow-up averaged 40 months, assessing fusion time, complications, and need for secondary procedures.

Main Results:

• Twenty-five out of 26 wrists achieved fusion in an average of 3.2 months.
• Complications occurred in three cases; 22 cases (88%) had uneventful results.
• Fifty-six percent of patients requested staple removal, and the technique did not shorten fusion time but avoided bone grafting and extensive casting.

Conclusions:

• Staple fixation alone is a viable technique for wrist fusion, offering good stability with minimal splintage.
• This method effectively avoids corticocancellous bone grafting and associated morbidity.
• While staple removal is common, the overall complication rate is low, making it a favorable alternative for wrist arthrodesis.