Arthrodesis of the wrist in rheumatoid disease

Twelve cases of wrist fusion for rheumatoid disease have been assessed pre and postoperatively in terms of symptoms, function, union, and complications. Improvement in hand function can be attributed to the provision of a painless stable wrist, and fusion in the straight position is in no way detrimental to personal hygiene. Delayed wound healing and pin migration are not uncommon complications but do not affect the end-results, which is radiological union from third metacarpal to radius - a definitive situation.