Wrist arthrodesis using an embedded iliac crest bone graft

34 patients treated by the iliac crest bone graft technique for wrist arthrodesis were reviewed. The average age was 45.6 years and the mean follow-up was 45 months. The procedure is performed through a straight ulnar approach and the head of the ulna is removed. A longitudinal trench is created in both distal radius and carpus preserving the anterior, posterior and lateral cortices. A curved trapezoidal monocortical iliac crest bone graft is embedded inside the trench. The position of the arthrodesis automatically follows the curvature of the graft. No fixation device is used. A short-arm cast is applied for 2 to 3 months. All arthrodeses except two fused within 3 months. Pain was completely relieved in 85% of the cases. Pronation and supination returned to normal 5 months post-operatively. Grip strength was increased in 80% of the cases. The carpometacarpal joints remained pain-free even when not fused. Complications were rare: two lesions of the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve; two cases of delayed union due to errors in technique, and displacement of the graft in one case. Although it is technically demanding, the embedded iliac crest graft wrist arthrodesis improves pronation and supination as a result of resection of the distal radio-ulnar joint, preserves or improves grip strength, and relieves pain.