LIMITED ARTHRODESIS FOR SCAPHOID NONUNION

A new surgical technique is described for the treatment of longstandin g scaphoid nonunions with established degenerative changes and carpal malalignment. The technique is based on natural history and biomechani cal studies and includes the excision of the distal scaphoid fragment and a limited arthrodesis that incorporates the proximal pole of the s caphoid, the lunate, and the capitate. Six men were treated with the p rocedure for symptomatic chronic scaphoid nonunions, and ail limited a rthrodeses fused. Pain relief was good to excellent, and range of moti on averaged 50% of the contralateral side.