Long-Term Results of Radioscapholunate Fusion Following Fractures of the Distal Radius

Abstract

Fifteen patients with radioscapholunate (RSL) fusion for traumatic lesions of the radiocarpal junction, whose short-term results have been previously reported, were reassessed after an average follow-up time of 8 years. Five patients had undergone wrist fusion because of non-union or early progressive arthritis. Of the ten wrists with retained mobility, eight continued to function satisfactorily. Two wrists were painful for reasons other than secondary midcarpal arthritis. Patient satisfaction was comparable in both groups with the wrist score better for wrists with residual motion. The survival of RSL partial wrist fusion corresponded inversely with the number of preceding operations and the range of motion before partial fusion. Secondary midcarpal arthritis, if present, arose early and was well tolerated. Failures were strongly linked to technical mistakes and complications.