Proximal Row Carpectomy Group Research Articles

Age Considerations in Four-Corner Arthrodesis and Proximal Row Carpectomy: A Review

Abstract Purpose Although indications for four-corner arthrodesis (4CA) and proximal row carpectomy (PRC) are not completely aligned, the surgeon is often tasked with deciding between these options which vary in the surgical technique and complication profile. Patient age is often discussed as a determining factor for treatment; however, outcome data for these procedures are rarely stratified by patient age. Our objective was to perform a systematic review on the age-specific outcomes for 4CA and PRC. Methods A PubMed database search for 4CA and PRC was performed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis guidelines. The inclusion criteria required individual case reporting of patient age, surgical intervention, and appropriate outcome measures. The data were stratified by procedure and by patients older and younger than 45 years. Results Within the 4CA group, the relative risk for a disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) score above 30 was 1.94 (95% confidence interval, 1.1–3.67) in patients over 45 years compared with patients under 45 years. Within the PRC group, grip strength as a percentage of the contralateral side was higher in the over 45 age group (mean 75%) compared to the under 45 age group (mean 61%) but did not reach the level of significance. Conclusion Despite satisfactory results for 4CA in aggregate, the distribution of scores indicates the need for setting expectations when treating younger adult patients with 4CA. The current results demonstrate increased disability based on DASH score following 4CA in patients under 45 years compared with patients over 45 years. Although outcomes were comparable between younger and older adults following PRC, recovery of grip strength may occur less frequently in younger adults. Level of evidence IV systematic review.

Does Proximal Row Carpectomy Improve Union in Wrist Arthrodesis? A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Background Some surgeons advocate for concomitant proximal row carpectomy (PRC) with total wrist arthrodesis (TWA), though there are limited data to support or oppose this view. Questions/Purposes Does concomitant PRC improve rates of union, revision, hardware loosening, hardware failure, and hardware removal in TWA? Patients and Methods A retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent TWA with and without concomitant PRC between January 2008 and December 2018 was undertaken. Patients were included if they underwent TWA using a dorsal spanning plate. Patients were excluded if they underwent partial wrist arthrodesis, revision TWA, or TWA with nondorsal spanning plate fixation. Results A total of 183 wrists in 180 patients were included in the study, 96 (52.5%) in the TWA only and 87 (47.5%) in the TWA + PRC groups. Median clinical and radiographic follow-up was 18.0 months (3.0-133.0 months) in the TWA + PRC group and 18.5 months (2.0-126.0 months) in the TWA only group ( p = 0.907). No difference in nonunion (TWA + PRC: 13/87 [14.9%], TWA only: 18/96 [18.8%], odds ratio: 0.76, p = 0.494), revision (TWA + PRC: 5/87 [5.75%], TWA only: 8/96 [8.33%], hazard ratio [HR]: 0.73, p = 0.586), loosening (TWA + PRC: 4/87 [4.60%], TWA only: 6/96 [6.25%], HR: 0.74, p = 0.646), failure (TWA + PRC: 5/87 [5.75%], TWA only: 4/96 [4.17%], HR: 1.55, p = 0.530), and removal (TWA + PRC: 12/87 [13.8%], TWA only: 16/96 [16.7%], HR: 0.84, p = 0.634) were identified. Conclusion Concomitant PRC might not improve rates of union or diminish complications in patient undergoing TWA. The role of PRC and the rationale for its use in TWA need to be individualized and discussed with patients prior to surgery. Level of Evidence This is a Level IV, therapeutic study.

The Biomechanical Effects of Simulated Radioscapholunate Fusion With Distal Scaphoidectomy, 4-Corner Fusion With Complete Scaphoidectomy, and Proximal Row Carpectomy Compared to the Native Wrist

To determine the effect of simulated radioscapholunate fusion with distal scaphoid excision (RSLF+DSE), 4-corner fusion with scaphoidectomy (4-CF), and proximal row carpectomy (PRC) on the wrist's range of motion (ROM), contact pressure, and contact force in a cadaveric model. Ten freshly frozen cadaveric wrists were tested under 4 sequential conditions: native wrist, RSLF+DSE, 4-CF, and PRC. The simulated fusions were performed using two 1.6-mm Kirschner wires. The ROM in the flexion-extension and radioulnar deviation planes was evaluated. Contact area, contact pressure, and contact force were measured at the scaphocapitolunate joint for the RSLF+DSE simulation and radiocarpal joint for the 4-CF and PRC simulations. Mechanical testing was performed using a 35-N uniaxial load and pressure-sensitive film. The RSLF+DSE and 4-CF groups had a decreased wrist arc ROM compared with the native wrist. The PRC group had a greater wrist arc ROM compared with the RSLF+DSE and 4-CF groups, but compared to the native wrist, it demonstrated a mildly decreased wrist arc ROM. The carpal pressure and contact force were significantly increased in the RSLF+DSE, 4-CF, and PRC groups compared with those in the native wrist. The RSLF+DSE group had the smallest increase in the carpal pressure and contact force, whereas the PRC group had the greatest increase. Our study validates previous findings that PRC is motion-conserving but has the greatest contact force, whereas RSLF-DSE and 4-CF may cause a decrease in the ROM but have lower contact forces. Understanding the underlying native wrist biomechanics and alterations following different surgical treatments may assist hand surgeons in their clinical decision making for the treatment of stage II scapholunate advanced collapse.

Proximal Row Carpectomy with Total Scapoidectomy vs. Conventional Carpal Resection for ReMotion Total Wrist Arthroplasty.

High complication rates in total wrist arthroplasty (TWA) still lead to controversy in the medical literature, and novel methods for complication reduction are warranted. In the present retrospective cohort study, we compare the outcomes of the proximal row carpectomy (PRC) method including total scaphoidectomy (n = 22) to the manufacturer’s conventional carpal resection (CCR) technique, which retains the distal pole of the scaphoid (n = 25), for ReMotion prosthesis implantation in non-rheumatoid patients. Mean follow-up was 65.8 ± 19.8 and 80.0 ± 28.7 months, respectively. Pre- and postoperative clinical assessment included wrist flexion-extension and radial-ulnar deviation; Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores; and pain via visual analogue scale. At final follow-up, grip strength and satisfaction were evaluated. All complications, re-operations, and revision surgeries were noted. Clinical complications were significantly lower in the PRC group (p = 0.010). Radial impaction was detected as the most frequent complication in the CCR group (n = 10), while no PRC patients suffered from this complication (p = 0.0008). Clinical assessment, grip strength measurements, and the log rank test evaluating the re-operation as well as revision function showed no significant difference. All functional parameters significantly improved compared to preoperative values in both cohorts. In conclusion, we strongly recommend PRC for ReMotion prosthesis implantation.

Long-Term Outcome and Secondary Operations after Proximal Row Carpectomy or Four-Corner Arthrodesis.

Background Proximal row carpectomy (PRC) and four-corner arthrodesis (FCA) are common surgical procedures used to treat degenerative wrist conditions; however, complications and failures can occur. Purpose This study aimed to investigate and compare the long-term rate of secondary surgeries including conversion to total wrist arthrodesis in patients who underwent PRC or FCA. Materials and Methods A retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent PRC or FCA in the past 20 years at a tertiary referral institution and associated Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital was performed. Patient demographics, comorbidities, surgical indications, and associated complications were tabulated. Patients were contacted via phone to obtain additional follow-up information regarding any additional surgeries, 10-point visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (quickDASH) scores, hand dominance, and occupational data. Results A total of 123 wrists made up the final dataset. Sixty-two wrists treated with PRC and 61 wrists treated with FCA were reviewed at a mean follow-up of 8.2 years. We did not find a significant difference in the rate of conversion to total wrist arthrodesis between the PRC (14.5%) and FCA (19.5%, p = 0.51) cohorts. Secondary operations were significantly greater in the FCA group (34.4%) compared with the PRC group (16.1%, p = 0.02). Females were 2.6 times more likely than males to undergo secondary operations when controlling for surgical procedure and smoking status ( p = 0.04). We did not detect a significant difference in VAS pain or in quickDASH scores between the two groups ( p = 0.35, 0.48, respectively). Conclusion PRC and FCA have comparable patient reported outcomes and wrist arthrodesis conversion rates at a mean follow-up of 8.2 years. In contrast, the FCA patient group had a significantly higher rate of secondary operations, including those for nonunion, symptomatic hardware, and other implant-related issues, when combined with wrist arthrodesis conversion. Level of Evidence Level IV, therapeutic study.

Proximal Row Carpectomy and 4-Corner Arthrodesis in Patients Younger Than Age 45 Years

To examine the long-term outcome of patients aged less than 45 years who underwent either proximal row carpectomy (PRC) or 4-corner arthrodesis (4CA) for wrist arthritis. We reviewed a retrospective cohort of 89 patients aged less than 45 years who underwent either 4CA (n= 51) or PRC (n= 38) for wrist arthritis. Mean follow-up was 11 years in the 4CA group and 18 years in the PRC group. Overall, there were no differences between groups in the need for revision surgery. Complications included 6 nonunions in the 4CA group (12%), 1 infection in each group, and 11 patients who experienced radiocarpal impingement (8 4CA and 3 PRC). There was no difference in the number of patients reporting moderate or severe pain between the PRC and 4CA groups. Mean flexion-extension arc was 54° after 4CA, compared with 73° after PRC. Patients who underwent 4CA had slightly improved grip strength (65% of the opposite side) compared with those who had PRC (54%). Mean postoperative Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire scores were 32 versus 19 (PRC vs 4CA) and patient-rated wrist evaluation scores were 27 versus 28 (PRC vs 4CA). Comparing radiographic arthritis, the 10-year outcome, free of moderate/severe arthritis for the PRC and 4CA groups, was 70% and 71%, respectively. Both PRC and 4CA represent a good surgical option for young patients with wrist arthritis, with similar complication rates, postoperative pain levels, wrist function, and long-term outcomes free of arthrodesis. Proximal row carpectomy has improved motion and fewer complications. Therapeutic IV.

Salvage Procedures for Advanced Carpal Collapse

Objective: Salvage procedures for advanced carpal collapse (scapholunate advanced collapse [SLAC], scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse [SNAC]) include mainly four-corner fusion (4-CF) and the proximal row carpectomy (PRC). To facilitate the decision-making procedure between the two operations, we initiated a follow-up study of our salvage procedures. Methods: Between 2008 and 2015, we performed 248 salvage procedures in our Hand Surgical Department. In all, 172 4-CFs and 76 PRCs were carried out, of which we were—so far (study is still going on)—able to follow up retrospectively n = 67 of the 4-CF group (mean follow-up 33 months) and n = 27 of the PRC group (mean follow-up 34 months). We evaluated the pain score (visual analogue scale [VAS] 1-10) in rest and on exertion. Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores were routinely recorded preoperatively, at 6 months and on follow-up exam. Grip strength (Jamar) and range of motion (ROM) were examined on the operated and on the opposite hand. Results: The 4-CF group showed a mean DASH score of 18.9 (preoperative 44.3), and the PRC group 26.5 (preoperative 46.9). Pain was reduced for the 4-CF group to 0.90 VAS (during rest: R) and 3.29 VAS (on exertion: E)—2.87 (R) and 7.5 (E), preoperatively. The PRC group claimed a pain score of 1.36 VAS (R) and 3.96 VAS (E)—1 (R) and 7.0 (E), preoperatively. Jamar Grip was 82.7% compared with the nontreated hand in the 4-CF group and 84.4% in the PRC group. The active ROM for wrist extension and flexion showed in the 4-CF group 87.2° and in the PRC group 97.9° preoperatively, worsened 6 months after the operation in both groups (54.9°, respectively, 58°) and was measured in the follow-up 68.7° in patients with 4-CF and 77.2° in patients with PRC. In addition, 75% would choose the same treatment again and were satisfied in both groups. Conclusions: In our patients, 4-CF and PRC proved to be reliable procedures for advanced carpal collapse. Although there is no significant difference in the outcome, we tend to suggest 4-CF to younger patients due to the anatomic reconstruction and the tendency of a (not significant) better DASH and a lower pain score on exertion. Because of the possibility of osteoarthritis of the lunate fossa, we tend to promote the PRC procedure to patients with less demand or higher age, if not yet progressed to a third stage carpal collapse.

Carpal height and postoperative strength after proximal row carpectomy or four-corner arthrodesis: Clinical, anatomical and biomechanical study

Proximal row carpectomy (PRC) and four-corner arthrodesis (4CA) are the two most commonly performed surgical procedures to treat wrist arthritis. Postoperative strength is one of the criteria for choosing between the two techniques. Some authors believe that strength is correlated with residual carpal height. The goal of this study was to determine if postoperative carpal height was predictive of postoperative strength. This study consisted of two parts: a clinical evaluation of grip strength after 4CA or PRC; anatomical and radiological measurements of carpal height before and after 4CA or PRC. Grip strength was better preserved after PRC (87.5%) than after 4CA (76.1%), when expressed relative to the opposite hand (P=0.053). There was a significant decrease in carpal height for the PRC group with a Youm's index of 0.37 versus 0.50 for the 4CA group (P<0.0001). Our clinical results and analysis of the literature indicate that 4CA is not superior to PRC when it comes to grip strength, whereas carpal height is significantly decreased after PRC. The decreased tendon excursion after PRC is balanced by an increase in joint stresses after 4CA.

Four-Corner Arthrodesis Versus Proximal Row Carpectomy: A Retrospective Study With a Mean Follow-Up of 17 Years

To compare the long-term outcomes of proximal row carpectomy (PRC) and 4-corner arthrodesis (FCA) in a consecutive series of patients surgically treated between 1989 and 1998 in a single teaching hospital. We included 12 patients (14 wrists) in the PRC group and 8 patients (8 wrists) in the FCA group. Mean follow-up time was 17 years. We compared functional outcome measures (range of motion and grip strength) and patient-reported outcome measures (visual analog score for pain, Mayo Wrist Score, and Michigan Hand Questionnaire). Radiographic evaluation of joint degeneration using the Culp and Jebson scoring system and postoperative complications were assessed for both groups. Active range of motion was slightly better after PRC. There were no differences in grip strength and patient-reported outcomes between groups. Severity of degenerative changes did not differ between groups and was not correlated with pain scores. The FCA group showed more postoperative complications. Considering the objective and patient-reported outcomes of this study, both types of surgery perform well in the long run. Proximal row carpectomy seems to result in slightly better movement of the wrist with fewer surgical complications and no need for hardware removal. Moreover, postoperative immobilization time was much shorter. Therapeutic III.

STT arthrodesis versus proximal row carpectomy for Lichtman stage IIIB Kienböck’s disease: first results of an ongoing observational study

Scapho-trapezial-trapezoidal (STT) arthrodesis and proximal row carpectomy (PRC) are used for the treatment of Lichtman stage IIIB Kienböck's disease. This study prospectively compares 1-year results of STT arthrodesis and PRC in Lichtman stage IIIB Kienböck's disease. Nineteen patients were operated: eight with STT arthrodesis and 11 with PRC. Preoperatively and 1-year postoperatively, mobility and grip strength were examined. Both DASH and Mayo Wrist Scores were obtained from the patients. In the STT arthrodesis group, mean extension/flexion worsened from 54 to 39 % of the opposite hand. Grip strength improved from 52.9 to 62.1 %. The DASH Score improved from 32.6 to 21.4, and the Mayo Wrist Score from 50.6 to 57.9. In the PRC group, extension/flexion decreased from 62.5 to 57.0 % of the opposite hand. Grip strength improved from 38.6 to 69.0 %, the DASH Score from 36.7 to 18.9, and the Mayo Wrist Score from 54.6 to 66.0. One year after operation, slightly better results were observed in patients with PRC compared to STT arthrodesis.

Comparison of proximal row carpectomy and midcarpal arthrodesis for the treatment of scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (SNAC-wrist) and scapholunate advanced collapse (SLAC-wrist) in stage II

Traumatic instability of the proximal carpal row is based either on a scaphoid fracture or a scapholunate dissociation. Long-standing scaphoid nonunion or scapholunate ligament insufficiency may lead to a carpal collapse and subsequent arthrosis. Controversy exists regarding the appropriate salvage procedure for patients with scapholunate advanced collapse (SLAC)- or scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (SNAC)-wrist in stage II. Proximal row carpectomy (PRC) and midcarpal arthrodesis (MCA) are two commonly used options. The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the functional outcome and pain relief in SNAC-SLAC-wrist stage II after MCA, compared to PRC in a long term follow up. In the MCA group 17 patients, nine SLAC- and eight SNAC-wrists, with an average age of 47 years at surgery and a mean follow up of 42 months were examined. The PRC group consisted of 30 patients, seven SLAC- and 23 SNAC-wrists, with an average age of 39 years at surgery and a mean follow up of 27 months. Active range of motion (AROM) was verified with a goniometer, grip strength was measured with a JAMAR-Dynamometer II. Pain was evaluated by a visual analogue scale from zero to 100 (VAS 0-100) under resting and stress conditions. Patients' upper extremity disability was measured with the DASH questionnaire. Radiographic evaluation was carried out by conventional X-ray to verify bony consolidation. Mean values of postoperative AROM in extension/flexion was 61 degrees in MCA, and 75 degrees in PRC patients; radial/ulnar deviation was 32 degrees and 33 degrees, respectively. Mean DASH-score was 21 in the MCA and 25 in the PRC group. Pain relief was 54% in MCA and 77% in PRC during resting conditions and 22% and 42% during stress conditions. Static grip strength was significantly higher following MCA than PRC (72% to 50%). Among both the MCA and PRC groups three patients required further treatment with total arthrodesis due to persisting pain or absence of bony consolidation. Our data demonstrate that PRC is more favourable for patients who require less grip strength at work. For patients carrying out heavy manual work we recommend MCA due to the significantly better grip strength postoperatively.

Outcome of two Salvage Procedures for Posttraumatic Osteoarthritis of the Wrist: Arthrodesis or Proximal Row Carpectomy

Purpose : to compare a motion preserving procedure of the wrist with the wrist arthrodesis, the so-called gold standard in patients with posttraumatic wristpain. Design : non randomized retrospective Setting : University Hospital-referral centrePatients: we studied two groups of patients with posttraumatic wrist pain due to osteoarthritis of the radiocarpal joint: one group of 35 patients underwent a radiocarpometacarpal arthrodesis, the other group of 26 patients a proximal row carpectomy (PRC). There were no significant differences in age and gender or hand dominance distribution. Intervention : proximal row carpectomy versus radiocarpal arthrodesis.Outcome measurements: DASH (disability of arm, shoulder and hand) gripping force, return to activity, complications and reintervention frequence.Results : Disability (DASH score) and regaining professional activity was significantly better in the PRC group. There was no significant difference in gripping force between the PRC and the arthrodesis group. Complications were less numerous.Conclusion : A mobility saving procedure as a PRC is preferable over an arthrodesis in patients with posttraumatic wrist osteoarthritis.

Degenerative arthritis of the wrist: proximal row carpectomy versus scaphoid excision and four-corner arthrodesis.

Two cohort populations of 19 patients from separate institutions performing exclusively either a scaphoid excision and 4-corner arthrodesis (lunate, capitate, hamate, and triquetrum) or proximal row carpectomy (PRC) for scapholunate advanced collapse arthritis were compared. There were no preoperative differences with respect to age, gender, dominance, stage of arthritis, or preoperative measures of pain and function. The length of the follow-up period averaged 28 months for the 4-corner arthrodesis group compared with 19 months for the PRC patients. At the follow-up examination wrist motion revealed no significant differences in the flexion-extension arc, averaging 81 degrees in the PRC patients and 80 degrees following 4-corner arthrodesis, which was 62% and 58%, respectively, of the opposite wrist. The 4-corner arthrodesis patients maintained greater radial deviation and total percent radial-ulnar deviation of the wrist. Grip strength averaged 71% for the PRC group compared with 79% for the 4-corner arthrodesis patients. Pain relief was similar using a variety of measures and patient satisfaction was equivalent. Function was similar except that the 4-corner arthrodesis patients scored significantly higher on the mental health component of the short form-36 health status survey. No differences were seen on the physical health component or an outcome scale specifically designed for the wrist. Both PRC and scaphoid excision and 4-corner arthrodesis are motion-preserving options for the treatment of scapholunate advanced collapse arthritis with minimal subjective or objective differences in short-term follow-up evaluations.

Motion-preserving procedures in the treatment of scapholunate advanced collapse wrist: Proximal row carpectomy versus four-corner arthrodesis

Seventeen patients were treated with scaphoid excision and four-corner arthrodesis (lunate, capitate, hamate, triquetrum) for scapholunate advanced collapse wrist and followed for a mean of 27 months. Eleven wrists in 10 patients had a proximal row carpectomy for scapholunate advanced collapse wrist and were followed for a mean of 37 months. The total arc of motion averaged 95 degrees in the four-corner arthrodesis patients and 115 degrees in the proximal row carpectomy patients, which was 47% and 64%, respectively, of the range of motion of the opposite wrist. Grip strength averaged 74% of the opposite wrist in the four-corner arthrodesis group and 94% in the proximal row carpectomy group. Three wrists in the four-corner arthrodesis group failed and were successfully converted to a total wrist fusion; two additional patients were awaiting arthrodesis. There were no failures in the proximal row carpectomy group. Proximal row carpectomy showed a high degree of patient satisfaction and is our motion-preserving procedure of choice except in those wrists with advanced capitolunate arthritis.