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J Wrist Surg 2019; 08(04): 317-320
DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-1685469
Scientific Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Long-Term Results of Universal 2 Total Wrist Arthroplasty

H. J. A. Zijlker
1   Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
,
M. J. P. F. Ritt
1   Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
,
C. B. IJsselstein
2   Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Albert Schweitzer Hospital, Dordrecht, the Netherlands
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

18 October 2018

03 March 2019

Publication Date:
22 April 2019 (online)

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Abstract

Background The Universal 2 is a widely used total wrist implant that aims to maintain function of the wrist.

Purpose Promising mid-term results of the Universal 2 total wrist implant are described in the literature. This study evaluates the long-term results in terms of implant survival and patient satisfaction.

Patients and Methods Patients who received a Universal 2 implant between 2004 and 2009 were retrospectively identified through a database search. Clinical outcome and complications of the implant were assessed by examination of the patient's medical records, X-rays, and a questionnaire, consisting of the Patient-Rated Wrist and Hand Evaluation questionnaire (PRWHE) and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) questionnaires and additional questions.

Results Twenty-five patients (26 wrists) were included in this study. Twenty-one (81%) Universal 2 implants remained in situ after a mean follow-up of 11 years. Moderate PRWHE (44) and QuickDASH (41) scores were found in these cases. Five Universal 2 implants failed and were converted to a total wrist arthrodesis after a mean period of 9.2 years due to distal component loosening (n = 3), recurrent luxation (n = 1), or recurrent synovitis (n = 1). Twenty-three (92%) patients were (very) satisfied with the Universal 2 implant.

Conclusion The Universal 2 demonstrates a high (81%) implant survival with a high patient satisfaction after a mean follow-up of 11 years. Prospective studies of the Universal 2 implant are necessary to objectify improvement in wrist function and to provide a better comparison to other fourth generation wrist implants.

Keywords

total wrist arthroplasty - wrist implant - Universal 2 - long-term results