Three-corner arthrodesis for scapholunate and scaphoid nonunion advanced collapsed wrists: outcomes at long term follow-ups

•Three-corner arthrodesis provided a high union rate and satisfactory long-term clinical and functional outcomes.•Lunate positioning and control during surgery are key to obtaining a normal radiolunate angle that prevents radio-lunate arthritis.•Persistent pain could occur and lead to reinterventions such as total wrist fusion. This study aimed to assess clinical, functional and radiological outcomes after three-corner arthrodesis in patients suffering from symptomatic scapholunate or scaphoid non-union advanced collapsed wrists. We hypothesised that three-corner arthrodesis provided satisfactory clinical and radiological results in the long term. This was a retrospective study of 13 patients (14 wrists) who underwent a three-corner arthrodesis between March 2004 and January 2019 with a mean follow-up of 6,7 years. Clinical assessment consisted of wrist motion, grip strength, pain and functional scores (Quick-DASH, PRWE, MWS). All complications and surgical revisions were investigated. Radiographic assessment searched for union, evaluated carpal height and ulnar translation, lunate tilt and occurrence of radio-lunate arthritis. At the last follow-up Quick-DASH and PRWE scores were 24,87(± 17.2) and 47.4 (± 26.9) respectively and were significantly improved. Wrist motion was 35°, 32°, 10° et 24° of flexion, extension, radial and ulnar deviation respectively. Union was obtained for 13 (92,9%) wrists. The mean radiolunate angle was 11° (-17°-34°). Three patients needed reintervention, which 2 consisted of total wrist arthrodesis due to persisting pain. Mild signs of radio-lunate arthritis were found in three patients. Three-corner arthrodesis seemed to provide satisfactory long-term functional outcomes. The union rate was high and even patients with signs of radio-lunate arthritis still had improved outcomes at the last follow-up. It could be a part of surgical options in wrists with radio- and midcarpal arthritis, among other procedures.