Lunotriquetral arthrodesis using cancellous bone graft

Previous reports of lunotriquetral arthrodesis suggest relatively low rates of primary fusion without the use of permanent fixation and/or prolonged i mmobilization. We performed 26 lunotriquetral arthrodeses in 24 patients wi th a technique using cancellous bone graft to fill a biconcave space create d in the adjoining bones with parallel K-wire fixation. The indications inc luded symptomatic lunotriquetral instability and degenerative arthritis. Al l patients received conservative treatment before surgery. Primary fusion w as achieved in all wrists in an average of 50 days. Postoperative wrist fle xion/extension averaged 77%/80% of unaffected sides. Radial/ulnar deviation averaged 95%/91% of unaffected sides. Pain relief was good or very good in 83%. Eight-eight percent returned to the workforce. This study shows relia ble, effective results with a technique that adheres to the principles of i ntercarpal arthrodesis and avoids permanent internal fixation. Copyright (C ) 2001 by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand.