Abstract
Background Arthroscopic total wrist arthrodesis is a procedure with minimal violation of extensor
compartments and less scar formation, compared with open wrist arthrodesis. In this
paper, we would like to present our experience with a modified surgical technique
for arthroscopic total wrist arthrodesis.
Description of Technique After an arthroscopic cartilage removal through radiocarpal and midcarpal portals,
the operation is continued under fluoroscopic control. In this technique, four wires
are inserted separately in four various directions (as described in the paper), followed
by insertion of self-tapping cannulated screw, under fluoroscopic control.
Patients and Methods In this prospective study, a total of four patients underwent arthroscopic total
wrist arthrodesis using our surgical technique within a period of 2 years. All four
patients were followed for a minimum of 3 months for possible complications and functional
outcome.
Results The results were satisfactory, and no complication was observed. All the patients
had complete union after 12 weeks, and the fusion was radiographically complete in
all cases by 12 weeks. All patients were happy with their functional outcomes.
Conclusion Using the described modified arthroscopic technique, we did four total wrist arthrodeses
with minimal scar, no complication and acceptable functional results.
Keywords
wrist - arthrodesis - arthroscopy
