External fixation and cancellous bone grafting for Kienböck's disease: a preliminary report

Between 1985 and 1990, 17 patients with histologically proven Kienböck's disease (Lichtman stages I, II, and III) underwent a combination of cancellous bone grafting to the lunate and external fixation across the wrist. All 17 patients were available for review with a minimum follow-up of 2 years (average, 47 years). Based on pain, functional status, range of motion, and grip strength (Mayo wrist score), there were 6 excellent, 6 good, 2 fair, and 3 poor results (2 of whom required further surgery). An overall success rate of 71% (12 of 17) was achieved. Ten patients underwent postoperative magnetic resonance scanning, and in 5, some improvement in signal intensity was demonstrated. The combination of cancellous bone grafting and external fixation is an alternative treatment for Kienböck's disease.