Limited wrist arthrodeses. I. The triscaphoid joint

Limited wrist arthrodesis is the surgical fusion of selected bones of the wrist. In each case the extent of the fusion is determined by the extent of the disease process. Limited wrist arthrodesis of the joints between the scaphoid, trapezium, and trapezoid is indicated in localized degenerative arthritis, radial hand dislocations, and certain instability patterns following ligament rupture (rotary subluxation of the scaphoid). Fusion is easily obtained utilizing a local bone graft donor site. Fusion of the three-bone unit leaves approximately 80% of flexion extension and 66% of radial and ulnar deviation in the wrist.