Radiolunate fusion. The forgotten partial arthrodesis.

Abstract

Radiolunate fusion has been used successfully in the treatment of rheumatoid ulnar translation of the carpus and degenerative radiolunate arthritis. Fusing the lunate to the radius places the keystone of the carpus in an aligned and stable position. The use of radiolunate fusion has been introduced here for other treatment challenges including traumatic ulnar translation of the carpus, dynamic midcarpal instability, volar and static intercalated segment instability. Pain relief was excellent and preoperative range of motion was maintained with radiolunate fusion.