Scaphocapitate arthrodesis for treatment of late stage Kienböck disease

Abstract

Symptomatic lunate collapse owing to Kienböck disease is difficult to treat. To define the potential role of scaphocapitate arthrodesis, we reviewed ten patients who underwent scaphocapitate arthrodesis for stage IIIB–IV Kienböck disease at a mean follow-up of 8.75 years (range 1.3–18.6). Clinical variables included ranges of motion, grip strength, pain, return to work, and QuickDASH (disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand) scores. Radiographs were evaluated for union, carpal height, alignment, ulnar translation, and radiocarpal arthritis. The procedure resulted in functional ranges of motion and good grip strengths. Pain was substantially reduced. The mean QuickDASH score was 27 (range 9.1–56.3). Radiographic analysis showed union in nine patients, maintenance of carpal height with a corrected radioscaphoid angle, and no evidence of ulnar translation. The long-term clinical benefits of scaphocapitate arthrodesis for treatment of collapsed Kienböck disease are demonstrated. However, radiographic signs of radioscaphoid arthritis were often observed in patients with follow-up greater than 10 years.