Outcome of four-corner arthrodesis for advanced carpal collapse : Circular plate versus traditional techniques


Published online: Jun 27 2009

Luc De Smet, Patrick Deprez, Joris Duerinckx, Ilse Degreef

From the KUL University Hospital Pellenberg, Leuven, Belgium

Abstract

Twenty eight patients with advanced carpal collapse (20 with scapho-lunate advanced collapse [SLAC] and 8 with scaphoid-nonunion advanced collapse [SNAC]) who were treated with a four-corner arthrodesis were reviewed ; 23 had a good or excellent outcome. The mean DASH score was 41. The flexion/extension arc decreased from 72° to 52°. Gripping force increased from 46% to 72%. The range of motion was better in those with a traditional fixation (K-wires or screws) compared to the newer circular plates. There was no significant difference concerning pain relief, gripping force and disability.