Clinically successful total wrist fusion using cancellous bone allograft

Abstract

Background Total wrist fusion requires the use of bone graft to achieve a solid union. Local autogenous sources (distal radius and olecranon) are limited in amount, and the iliac crest is associated with donor site morbidity. In this study, we report the outcome of wrist fusions using allograft cancellous bone chips. Methods Fifteen patients underwent total wrist fusion for pancarpal arthritis using AO/ASIF wrist fusion plate and allograft cancellous bone chips. Mean patient age was 47 years, and mean follow-up was 32 months. Disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) score; patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) score and grip strength measurements were used as the primary outcome measures. Results All patients had improved DASH and PRWE scores. Grip strength increased 67% after the surgery. No patient had loosening of the hardware at a minimum of 18 months after the surgery. Conclusions The use of allograft cancellous bone chips provided a satisfactory outcome with no donor site morbidity.