Scaphoid excision and four-corner fusion using the variable angle locking intercarpal fusion plate for treatment of post-traumatic degenerative changes of the wrist

The aim of this study is to compare functional and X-ray results before and after four-corner arthrodesis using an angular stable dorsal circular plate in patients with post-traumatic degenerative changes of the wrist. Nine consecutive patients with scapholunate advanced collapse (SLAC) or scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (SNAC) of the wrist, stage III, underwent scaphoid excision and four-corner fusion using angular stable plate fixation. The wrists were immobilised using a split for two weeks and then a removable wrist brace with assisted physiotherapy for four weeks. Minimal followup was 18 months. Clinical assessment before and after surgery included the wrist range of motion (ROM), grip strength, presence of pain, disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) scores, and radiographic findings of the carpal height and ulnar translation ratios. Differences were statistically tested. In addition, patients' satisfaction with functional outcomes was evaluated. In the post-operative period the patients experienced less pain during daily activities and had a better carpal height ratio than before surgery; these differences were statistically significant. In the other criteria, although showing better post-operative results, improvement was not statistically significant. Eight patients were satisfied with the final outcome. One patient required limited denervation of the wrist for pain relief. There was no non-union. DISCUSSION The functional outcomes (ROM, grip strength) in our patients at follow-up were fully comparable with the previously published studies. Although, by most postoperative treatment protocols, physical therapy is started at four to eight weeks of rigid fixation of the wrist, no non-union was found in our group of patients who had a shorter period of post-operative fixation. Four-corner arthrodesis of the wrist using angular stable dorsal circular plate fixation provides pain relief with acceptable preservation of the range of motion and no consolidation problems. Long-term follow-up and a larger group of patients would be necessary to confirm these hopeful results.