Radiolunate arthrodesis and scaphoidectomy combined to Sauvé-Kapandji procedure as treatment of wrist osteoarthritis: Clinical and radiological results

Abstract

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to analyze clinical and radiological results for 1-stage radiolunate arthrodesis and scaphoidectomy associated to the Sauvé-Kapandji procedure, to alleviate pain and conserve wrist motion. MethodsSeven patients (8 wrists) with symptomatic osteoarthritis of the radiolunate and distal radioulnar joints were treated from 1999 to 2016. Mean age at surgery was 49 years and M/F sex ratio was 6/1. Etiologies were distal radial intra-articular malunion for 6 patients and bilateral gouty arthritis for 1. The procedure was performed by a dorsal approach in a single step. Pain was assessed on visual analogue scale (VAS). Pre- and post-operative active flexion-extension and pronation-supination were compared. The secondary endpoint was onset of postoperative complications. ResultsAt a mean 71 months’ follow-up (range, 30–168 months), there was significant reduction in pain (VAS, 0.5/10; p < 0.0001). Motion results were satisfactory, with 32° flexion, 39° extension, for a non-significant decrease of 11° and 5° respectively; pronation and supination were significantly increased, by a mean 23° and 30° respectively. Three wrists (37.5%) required a second surgery. There were no cases of surgical site infection or non-union. ConclusionRadiolunate arthrodesis and scaphoidectomy combined to Sauvé-Kapandji procedure was an effective solution for the treatment of symptomatic radiolunate and distal radioulnar osteoarthritis. Level of evidenceIV.