Surgical outcome of radial osteotomy for Kienböck’s disease—minimum 10 years of follow-up

Long-term results of radial osteotomy for Kienböck’s disease seldom are seen in the literature. The purpose of this study was to report the minimum 10-year results and to compare them with the 5-year results to determine whether the favorable intermediate-term results were maintained. Twenty-five patients who underwent radial osteotomy were followed-up for a mean period of 14.5 years. They were examined for pain, grip strength, and wrist range of motion (ROM). Through a review of clinical records, 5-year postoperative results were collected. The carpal height ratio and Ståhl’s index were measured and the x-rays were inspected for osteoarthritic changes. We devised an original lunate grade to evaluate radiologic improvement of the ischemic lunate. Overall results were evaluated using Cooney’s wrist function score and Nakamura’s scoring system for Kienböck’s disease. The long-term results were compared with both the preoperative status and the 5-year results. Pain, ROM, and grip strength were improved significantly after surgery, and the results were maintained for a long period. Carpal height ratio and Ståhl’s index did not show significant improvements but ischemic lunate showed certain radiologic improvements with time by the lunate grade system. Osteoarthritic changes were observed in 54% of patients at 5 years and in 73% of patients at the final follow-up evaluation, but the arthrosis generally was mild and did not affect the clinical results. Cooney’s wrist function score was excellent or good in 96% of the patients, and the results with Nakamura’s scoring system for Kienböck’s disease were excellent or good in 68% of the patients at the final follow-up evaluation. The percentages were the same 5 years after surgery. Radial osteotomy for Kienböck’s disease is a reasonable treatment option and clinical improvement lasts for a long period of time. Although radiologic improvement was not drastic, the inner structure such as sclerotic change or bone cysts of the lunate improved with time, indicating healing of the ischemic lunate. Severe osteoarthritic change or proximal migration of the capitate can be avoided.