Fifth metacarpal/hamate arthrodesis for posttraumatic osteoarthritis

The fifth metacarpal/hamate joint was arthrodesed in seven patients with symptomatic posttraumatic osteoarthritis. The joint was fused in about 20 degrees of flexion with a corticocancellous iliac bone graft. Follow-up averaged 2 years. There was complete or marked relief of pain in all patients. Grip strength was improved in all patients. Six of the seven patients returned to their original occupations. Fifth metacarpal flexion (descent) was not lost as compensatory motion developed between the hamate and triquetrum joints.