Scaphotrapeziotrapezoid arthrodesis: A follow-up study

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to review the results of 800 scaphotrapeziotrapezoid fusions performed over a 27-year period. Methods: The patients were evaluated for postoperative range of motion, grip and pinch strength, pain, return to work, arthritis, and complications. Results: The overall range of motion was 70% to 80% of the nonoperated side and strength was 69% to 89%. Of the patients 88% returned to previous employment. Arthritis developed in 1.8% of the patients. The overall complication rate was 13.4%. Conclusions: Scaphotrapeziotrapezoid fusion is a viable treatment option especially for a high-functional-demand young population with significant wrist pathology. Complications, specifically nonunion, can be minimized with careful technique. (J Hand Surg 2003;28A:397-404. Copyright © 2003 by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand.)