Triquetrum Excision Research Articles

Outcomes of Three Corner Fusion without Triquetrum Excision versus Conventional Four Corner Fusion in SNAC Wrist

Abstract Background Four corner fusion (4CF) has long been the preferred treatment for stages II and III of scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (SNAC) with intact radiolunate articulation. Three corner fusion (3CF) with excision of the triquetrum was then suggested aiming to improve wrist motion . Several concerns had been emerged regarding proprioceptive function of the triquetrum and risk of early progression to radiolunate arthritis following excision . Three corner fusion without triquetrum excision (3CFT) was suggested as a relevant alternative to conventional limited fusion techniques . Since then, there is an on-going debate on the best technique to use for SNAC wrist . The authors evaluated the functional and operative outcomes of 4CF versus 3CFT in SNAC wrist. Materials and Methods A total of 34 patients underwent four corner fusion or three corner fusion without triquetrum excision for SNAC grade II and III . The average follow-up period was 1 year .Clinical evaluations were conducted and determined by radiographs, range of motion, grip strength, visual analog scale, and modified Mayo wrist scores. Results There were no significant differences between the demographic data, preoperative and postoperative parameters between the two groups. There was a significant difference in the operative time between the two groups (P < 0.001).There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding the complication rate. Conclusions The authors concluded that 3CFT offered a comparable functional outcome to 4CF with less operative time with no significant complications or mortality.

Midcarpal Arthrodesis with or without Excision of Triquetrum: A Systematic Review

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this systematic review is to compare the clinical outcomes of midcarpal arthrodesis with triquetrum excision against midcarpal fusion without the excision of triquetrum performed using modern osteosynthesis technology. Methods A systematic review of publications in PubMed, Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Review was conducted. The studies that utilized osteosynthesis techniques other than Kirshner wire, with at least 10 patients, and had a minimum one-year follow-up period in English language were included. The quality of studies were evaluated using validated tools for assessing observational studies. Union rate, functional outcomes and revision/complication rates were collected and analyzed. Results A meta-analysis was not possible. Based on pooled data the flexion-extension arc improved by 6 degrees for midcarpal arthrodesis group with triquetrum excision, but decreased by 11 degrees in the group without. The radial-ulnar arc improved by 5 degrees in the triquetrum excision group, but decreased by 3 degrees in the triquetrum preserving group. Improvement in grip strength appears to be better in the triquetrum preserving group (10 kg as opposed to 1 kg), while there were no observable difference in pain score. Conclusions The literature lacked good comparison studies to examine the role of triquetrum excision in midcarpal fusion. While midcarpal fusion with triquetrum excision appeared to yield better ROM in the pooled data, studies with direct comparison of the two techniques are required to fill in the gap. Type of Study/Level of Evidence Therapeutic IV.

Biomechanical Effects of Radioscapholunate Fusion With Distal Scaphoidectomy and Triquetrum Excision on Dart-Throwing and Wrist Circumduction Motions

Distal scaphoid and triquetrum excisions can improve the range of wrist motion after radioscapholunate (RSL) fusion, but little is known about the kinematics of dart-throwing and global circumduction motions. We hypothesized that these excisions could increase the range of motion without causing midcarpal instability. Seven fresh-frozen cadaver upper extremities were mounted on a testing apparatus after isolation and preloading of the tendons of the flexor carpi radialis, flexor carpi ulnaris, extensor carpi radialis, and extensor carpi ulnaris. Sequential loadings of the flexor carpi ulnaris and extensor carpi radialis simulated active dart-throwing motion. Passive circumferential loading produced the wrist circumduction motion. We measured the range of wrist motions with an electromagnetic tracking system in 4 experiments: intact, simulated RSL fusion, RSL fusion with distal scaphoid excision, and RSL fusion with distal scaphoid and total triquetrum excisions. To evaluate midcarpal stability, we conducted passive mobility testing of the distal carpal row in the radial, volar, ulnar, and dorsal directions. Radioscapholunate fusion decreased the dart-throwing motion to a mean of 46% of the baseline value; distal scaphoid and triquetrum excisions increased the mean arc to 50% and 62%, respectively. Radioscapholunate fusion diminished the wrist circumduction to a mean of 43% of the baseline value, which increased to a mean of 58% and 74% after distal scaphoid and triquetrum excision, respectively. A significant increase in radial deviation was noted after distal scaphoid excision, and subsequent triquetrum excision significantly increased motion in the ulnar-palmar direction. Regarding midcarpal stability, dorsal translation significantly increased after distal scaphoid and triquetrum excisions. Distal scaphoid and triquetrum excision after RSL fusion improved both dart-throwing and circumduction motions, but dorsal midcarpal instability occurred. Subsequent carpal excisions may improve short-term outcome by increasing motions in a RSL-fused wrist; however, a potential risk of midcarpal instability should be considered.

Radioscapholunate fusion for posttraumatic osteoarthritis with consecutive excision of the distal scaphoid and the triquetrum: A comparative study

The aim of this study was to assess the clinical and radiographic outcomes after radioscapholunate (RSL) fusion for posttraumatic osteoarthritis. This was a retrospective, dual-center study of all patients who underwent RSL fusion between 1995 and 2015 for posttraumatic radiocarpal osteoarthritis. Patients were assessed at the final review to determine clinical (pain, wrist range of motion and strength), self-reported (QuickDASH, PRWE and MWS scores) and radiological (degenerative osteoarthritis in the scaphotrapeziotrapezoid (STT) or midcarpal joint and radiocarpal fusion) outcomes. We analyzed three groups: RSL fusion alone, RSL fusion with distal scaphoid excision (DSE) and RSL fusion with DSE and triquetrum excision (TE). Eighty-five patients were included; 10 were lost to follow-up and 11 required conversion to total wrist fusion before the final review. Finally, 64 patients had both clinical and radiographic evaluations. The mean follow-up was 9.1 years (range 1-21.4). RSL fusion alone was performed in 29 patients, RSL fusion with DSE in 23 and RSL fusion with DSE and TE in 12. At the final follow-up, the three groups did not differ in their pain or wrist motion. Overall, 47 (73%) patients were satisfied or very satisfied with the procedure. DSE significantly decreased STT osteoarthritis and radiocarpal non-union. The total wrist osteoarthritis rate after RSL fusion was 55%. RSL fusion is an effective procedure to preserve some motion in wrists with posttraumatic radiocarpal osteoarthritis. DSE prevents STT osteoarthritis by removing bony impingement and increases the fusion rate. Level of evidenceLevel IV, Case series, Therapeutic studies.

Capitolunate Arthrodesis: A Systematic Review

To compile and review the indications, outcomes, and complications of capitolunate arthrodesis (CLA). We performed a literature search identifying 33 articles, 6 of which met inclusion criteria, including 80 patients. Included publications contained the results of CLA with minimum 12-month follow-up between 2000 and 2018. Data were pooled and analyzed focusing on the primary outcomes of union and complications. Average age of patients was 48 years (range, 22-86 years), median follow-up was 34 months (range, 12-198 months), and most common indication was scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (59%). Nearly half underwent a concomitant triquetrum excision (49%). Most patients were pain-free (78%) and returned to work (92%). Grip strength and visual analog pain scale both improved after CLA. Whereas 96% fused within a reported 42 to 210 days (median, 70 days), 11% of patients had complications including nonunion (3.8%) and loose hardware (6.3%). The reoperation rate was 14%, including wrist arthrodeses and wrist arthroplasty. Capitolunate arthrodesis is a feasible option for scapholunate advanced collapse and scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse wrists with complications similar to those encountered in 4-corner arthrodesis. Therapeutic IV.

Triquetrum Excision in Radioscapholunate Arthrodesis for Posttraumatic Radiocarpal Osteoarthritis With Ulnar Impaction Syndrome.

Dependent on fracture type, concomitant carpal injuries, and operative treatment, distal radius fractures can lead to symptomatic radiocarpal osteoarthritis. In addition, radial shortening can cause ulnar impaction syndrome. Radiocarpal arthrodesis and ulnar shortening osteotomy are known and frequently applied surgical procedures for each of those pathologies. There are limited data concerning treatment options for a combined disorder. The presented technique in this article demonstrates that radioscapholunate arthrodesis with distal pole scaphoidectomy and total triquetrum excision successfully treats both symptomatic radiocarpal osteoarthritis and ulnar impaction syndrome without further surgery on the ulna.

Ten-year radiological and clinical outcomes of capitolunate arthrodesis with scaphoid and triquetrum excision for advanced degenerative arthritis in the wrist: Single-center, retrospective case series with 10 patients

The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcomes of capitolunate arthrodesis for treating advanced wrist osteoarthritis. The arthrodesis procedures were performed in three women and seven men having a mean age of 59years (range, 20–70). Eight of the patients were manual laborers. The dominant hand was operated on in seven patients. The osteoarthritis was attributed to scapholunate dissociation (SLAC) in six patients and scaphoid nonunion (SNAC) in four patients. The arthrodesis site was stabilized with two vertical compression screws. Patients were reviewed after an average follow-up of 122months (80–172). The clinical and radiological outcomes consisted of measuring pain on a visual analog scale (VAS), determining the QuickDASH and PRWE scores, the patients’ satisfaction, the radiolunate and capitolunate angles, carpal height, radiolunate joint condition, and fusion of the arthrodesis site. The mean pain level was reduced from 5 to 1 (P<0.05). The range of motion improved by 20° in flexion-extension and 10° in radioulnar deviation, while strength improved by 8kg relative to the preoperative measurements (P<0.05). The QuickDASH was 15points (±12) and the PRWE was 20 (±32). Relative to the preoperative values, the radiolunate angle was reduced by 4.5° and the capitolunate angle by 6.5°. Carpal height was 6.5mm less on average (P<0.05). None of the patients had a nonunion or deterioration of the radiolunate joint. One patient developed Type II complex regional pain syndrome. The nine other patients were able to return to work. Capitolunate arthrodesis provided pain relief and good function in 9 of the 10patients in our case series. The results was maintained over time, both in terms of mobility and pain relief, which were clearly improved after the surgical treatment. We found no signs of deterioration of the radiolunate joint over 10years. There are very few published studies describing the long-term outcomes of this procedure. Our findings are consistent with those in the literature, which makes capitolunate arthrodesis with scaphoid and triquetrum excision a highly satisfactory and reliable technique in the long term for the treatment of advanced osteoarthritis in the wrist. Level of evidenceIV

Distal Radioulnar Joint Replacement in the Scarred Wrist.

Background Radiocarpal or midcarpal arthritis can occur simultaneously with arthritis of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ), leading to functional impairment of the wrist. Treatment often involves wrist arthroplasty or arthrodesis, either with simultaneous or secondary procedures, addressing the DRUJ. Successful treatment of solitary DRUJ arthritis with DRUJ replacement has been reported. However, outcomes in patients with multiple prior wrist surgeries are lacking. Surgery in these wrists is challenging because surgical scarring and advanced bone deformities make implant positioning more difficult. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes in patients that underwent total wrist arthrodesis and DRUJ replacement after multiple prior wrist surgeries. Methods We prospectively enrolled patients that underwent total wrist arthrodesis and replacement of the DRUJ, either simultaneously or during separate procedures from 1999 to 2012. We included 14 patients with a median age of 43 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 35-47). As objective outcomes range of motion, weight-bearing ability, grip strength, was measured. For the subjective outcomes, we used an analogue pain score and the disabilities of the arm shoulder and hand (DASH) scores. Results At a median follow-up of 5.6 years (IQR: 3.2-7.1). The average DRUJ range of motion and weight lifting ability significantly improved. As for the subjective evaluations, postoperative pain scores improved significantly, as did the DASH scores. Four of the patients had a postoperative complication, including infection and heterotopic ossification, of which two required reoperations. Additionally, 5 patients developed pisotriquetral arthritis requiring, pisiform excision, triquetrum excision, or the combination of both. Conclusion Distal radioulnar joint replacement with a semiconstrained prosthesis was an effective method to restore the function of the wrist and forearm. As the surgical anatomy and soft tissue envelope were compromised in these patients, additional surgical exposure is necessary, adding to the complexity in these patients. No radiographic loosening Level of Evidence This is a therapeutic level IV study.

Stage III Advanced Wrist Collapse Treatment Options: A Cadaveric Study.

Background Scapholunate advanced collapse and scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse result in high morbidity and pose significant challenges for active patients. Multiple treatment options have been proposed to yield satisfactory results; however, restoration of physiological wrist motion remains an issue. Questions/Purposes The objective of this study was to compare wrist mobility after four different treatment methods for grade III wrist collapse: (1) no treatment, (2) scaphoidectomy and lunate-capitate arthrodesis, (3) scaphoidectomy, lunate-capitate arthrodesis, and triquetrum-hamate arthrodesis, and (4) scaphoidectomy, lunate-capitate arthrodesis, and triquetrum excision. Methods Four paired (n = 8) fresh-frozen human cadaveric upper limbs were used in this controlled laboratory study. Computed tomography scans were collected at all testing states and measurements were made to evaluate midcarpal joint mobility and alignment. Results A significant decrease in wrist extension was observed for all treatments. Middle column and two-column arthrodesis demonstrated no significant differences for carpal alignment and mobility. No significant differences were observed for triquetrum-hamate mobility or wrist extension between the partial and two-column arthrodesis. Triquetrum excision significantly improved ulnar deviation. Conclusion The most important finding of this study was that the one-column arthrodesis has comparable carpal alignment and range of motion to that of bi-column arthrodesis. Clinical Relevance The results of this study suggest that a stage III advanced wrist collapse can be treated by isolated lunate-capitate arthrodesis with scaphoidectomy. Fusion between the remaining carpal bones may not be necessary because the carpal alignment and range of motion of the remaining joints were not significantly different in the present study.

Three-Corner Arthrodesis With Scaphoid and Triquetrum Excision for Wrist Arthritis

To report the clinical and radiographic results of a consecutive series of patients who underwent the 3-corner arthrodesis (3CA) (arthrodesis of capitate, hamate, and lunate with scaphoid and triquetrum excision) procedure for wrist arthritis. This was a retrospective study of 30 consecutive patients who underwent a 3CA between 1994 and 2008. The indications were painful wrist osteoarthritis due to stage 2 or 3 scapholunate advanced collapse, scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse, or scaphoid chondrocalcinosis advanced collapse wrists. The clinical assessment consisted of range of motion, grip strength, and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand and Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation scores. The radiographic assessment parameters consisted of bone fusion, carpal height and translation, lunate tilt, and appearance of the radiolunate joint space. The average follow-up was 6 years (± 4 years). The arthrodesis was performed with staples, 2 screws, or a plate and screws. Grip strength was 72% of the contralateral side. The mean range of motion in flexion-extension arc and ulnar-radial deviation arc was 70° and 36°, respectively. The mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand and the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation scores were 17 (± 11) and 22 (± 24), respectively. The fusion incidence was 90% (27 of 30). The mean difference of radiolunate angle on preoperative and postoperative radiographs was 8° (16°-8° in dorsal direction). The radiolunate joint space had narrowed in 1 patient. Six surgical revisions (20%) were necessary owing to dorsal pain in patients operated using plates, staples, or excessively long screws. Three-corner arthrodesis results are comparable with 4-corner arthrodesis and proximal row carpectomy. We feel that it is simpler technically than 4-corner arthrodesis. Although 3CA is more complex than proximal row carpectomy, it preserves the native radiolunate joint. Complications that can be attributed to the dorsal fixation hardware (particularly staples and plates) were noteworthy. Therapeutic IV.

RSL Fusion with Excision of Distal Scaphoid and Triquetrum: A Cadaveric Study

Radioscapholunate (RSL) fusion has been utilized for treatment of radiocarpal arthritis for patients with an intact midcarpal joint. This preserves midcarpal joint motion while alleviating pain. Dart thrower's motion (DTM), which has been emphasized recently, is mainly a midcarpal joint motion. Question A cadaveric study was designed to measure and compare the range of motion (ROM) of the human wrist before and after an RSL fusion, followed by distal scaphoid excision, and finally excision of the triquetrum. Methods Twelve embalmed adult cadaveric upper limbs were assessed. The wrist motion was measured with an electrogoniometer. Measurements of the flexion-extension plane and radial-ulnar deviation plane were obtained for baseline after capsulotomy, after simulated RSL fusion with memory staples, after distal scaphoidectomy, and after excision of the triquetrum. Results The effects of scaphoid and triquetrum excision were expressed as improvements in movement over that of the preceding step. RSL fusion alone resulted in a decrease of the flexion-extension (F-E) arc by 36% and the radioulnar deviation (R-U) arc by 30%. Excision of the distal scaphoid with RSL improved the F-E arc by 34% and the R-U arc by 34%. With excision of the triquetrum, the F-E arc improved further by 13% and the R-U arc by 21%. The ROM of the simulated RSL fusion with distal scaphoidectomy is improved with excising the triquetrum, mainly through an increase in ulnar deviation motion. RSL fusion with distal scaphoidectomy and triquetrectomy can be an alternative to total wrist arthrodesis for patients with an intact midcarpal joint.

Radioscapholunate Fusions

Radiocarpal fusions are performed for a variety of indications, most commonly for debilitating painful arthritis. The goal of a wrist fusion is to fuse the painful, diseased joints and to preserve motion through the healthy joints. Depending on the extent of the disease process, radiocarpal fusions may take the form of radiolunate, radioscapholunate, or total wrist fusions. Surgical techniques and instrumentation have advanced over the last few decades, and consequently the functional outcomes have improved and complications decreased. Techniques for partial carpal fusions have improved and now include distal scaphoid and triquetrum excision, which improves range of motion and fusion rates. In this article we discuss the various surgical techniques and fixation methods available and review the corresponding evidence in the literature. The authors' preferred surgical technique of radioscapholunate fusion with distal scaphoid and triquetrum excision is outlined. New implants and new concepts are also discussed.

Effect of scaphoid and triquetrum excision after limited stabilisation on cadaver wrist movement

This study assessed the effect of excision of the scaphoid and triquetrum on the range of motion of the embalmed cadaver wrist joint after midcarpal stabilisation. The range of motion was measured in 12 cadaver wrists before and after stabilisation of the joints between the lunate, capitate, triquetrum and hamate. This was measured again following resection of the scaphoid and then the triquetrum. Scaphoid excision after four-corner stabilisation increased the radioulnar (RU) arc by 12 degrees and the flexion-extension (F-E) arc by 10 degrees. Subsequent excision of the triquetrum, to produce a three-corner stabilisation, further increased the RU arc by 7 degrees and the F-E arc by 6 degrees. Three-corner stabilisation with excision of scaphoid and triquetrum improved wrist motion in embalmed cadavers.

Range of Motion Effects of Distal Pole Scaphoid Excision and Triquetral Excision After Radioscapholunate Fusion: A Cadaver Study

Radioscapholunate (RSL) fusion is an effective surgical procedure for the treatment of isolated radiocarpal arthritis. Although functional wrist motion is typically preserved through the midcarpal joint, many patients are still frustrated by postoperative limitations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate motion of cadaver wrists after simulated RSL fusion with excision of the distal pole of the scaphoid and the triquetrum. Ten fresh-frozen cadaver upper extremities were mounted on a custom testing apparatus after isolation of the flexor carpi radialis, flexor carpi ulnaris, extensor carpi radialis longus, and extensor carpi ulnaris tendons. Sequential loading of these tendons resulted in flexion, extension, radial, and ulnar deviation. We subsequently measured range of motion with the use of digital photography. All specimens were tested in 4 states: intact (normal), RSL fusion (simulated), RSL fusion with distal scaphoid pole excision, and RSL fusion with distal scaphoid pole and triquetrum excision. The results were statistically analyzed using a repeated measures analysis of variance. Range of motion decreased to 39% to 46% of normal for flexion and extension and 65% to 71% of normal for radial and ulnar deviation after simulated RSL fusion. The addition of distal pole of scaphoid excision resulted in flexion and extension returning to 72% to 79% of normal, and radial and ulnar deviation returning to 84% to 89% of normal. Excision of the triquetrum further increased flexion and extension to 87% to 97% of normal, and radial and ulnar deviation to 119% to 137% of normal. The combination of triquetral and distal scaphoid pole excision after RSL fusion improves wrist motion to levels close to normal in the cadaver model.

Biomechanical Effect of Triquetral and Scaphoid Excision on Simulated Midcarpal Arthrodesis in Cadavers

To examine the biomechanical effects of triquetral and scaphoid excision on wrist motion and radiolunate contact characteristics in a cadaveric model after simulated 4-corner arthrodesis with rigid internal fixation. Ten fresh-frozen cadaveric upper extremities were studied. For all surgical manipulations, the motion was measured and contact characteristics were assessed using ultralow prescale pressure-sensitive film. Compared with the intact specimen, simple 4-corner arthrodesis with scaphoid retention led to a significant decrease in flexion (-23%), extension (-69%), radial deviation (-129%), and ulnar deviation (-25%), but no significant change in radiolunate contact characteristics. After 4-corner arthrodesis with scaphoid excision, there was a significant increase in radial deviation (+213%) without significant change in radiolunate contact characteristics, but average radial deviation was still less than in the intact specimen. After further excision of the triquetrum, radial deviation increased significantly (+238%), to a mean value 5% greater than that of the intact state, but at the cost of a significant increase in mean radiolunate contact pressure (+44% compared to the intact state). When performing 4-corner arthrodesis, scaphoid and triquetrum excision may improve motion at the cost of increased mean radiolunate contact pressure.

Capitolunate arthrodesis with scaphoid and triquetrum excision.

A retrospective two-center outcome study was designed to evaluate the results of capitolunate arthrodesis with scaphoid and triquetrum excision mainly for scapholunate advanced collapse patterns of arthritis. Fourteen wrists in 14 patients were evaluated objectively by standard parameters and subjectively by the Short Musculoskeletal Functional Assessment at an average of 28 months after surgery (range, 14-51 months). All patients were men between the ages of 20 and 70 years (average, 49 years). Two patients had a painful nonunion and one had persistent pain despite conversion to a solid wrist arthrodesis. One patient had x-ray evidence of progressive radiolunate narrowing, but only occasional pain. Postoperative wrist flexion-extension arc was 53 degrees and radioulnar deviation arc was 18 degrees. Grip and pinch strengths were 71% and 75%, respectively, of the normal contralateral wrist. The results of our study indicate that capitolunate arthrodesis with scaphoid and triquetrum excision is comparable to other motion-preserving operative procedures for scapholunate advance collapse.