A novel classification of Kienbock’s disease based on magnetic resonance imaging

Purpose We devised a classification system for Kienbock’s disease using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Moreover, we compared it with the modified Lichtman classification and evaluated the inter-observer reliability. Methods Eighty-eight patients diagnosed with Kienbock’s disease were included. All patients were classified using the modified Lichtman and MRI classifications. MRI staging was based on factors including partial marrow oedema, cortical integrity of the lunate, and dorsal subluxation of the scaphoid. The inter-observer reliability was evaluated. We also evaluated the presence of a displaced coronal fracture of the lunate and investigated its association with the presence of a dorsal subluxation of the scaphoid. Results Seven patients were categorized into stage I, 13 into II, 33 into IIIA, 33 into IIIB, and two into IV using the modified Lichtman classification. Six patients were categorized into stage I, 12 into II, 56 into IIIA, ten into IIIB, and four into IV using the MRI classification. The greatest shift between the stages was observed in stages IIIA and IIIB when the results of the two classification systems were compared. The inter-observer reliability of the MRI classification was greater than that of the modified Lichtman classification. Fifteen cases with a displaced coronal fracture of the lunate were identified, and a dorsal subluxation of the scaphoid was significantly more present in these patients. Conclusion The MRI classification system is more reliable than is the modified Lichtman classification. MRI classification reflects carpal misalignment with higher fidelity and is more appropriate for classification into stages IIIA and IIIB.