Article
Radiocarpal wrist arthrodesis with cannulated screws – case report
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Published: | February 6, 2020 |
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Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate an alternative for wrist fusion by using cannulated screws.
Material and Method: Total wrist arthrodesis is commonly performed using fixation plates, which can produce soft tissue irritation, often require removal, and limit the ability to position the hand in space. Cannulated screws (Acutrak 2 Headless Compression Screw System) for wrist fusion from Acumed, USA were used according to the manufacturers' instructions. The articular surfaces of the radius, scaphoid, lunate, and capitate were debrided, and a cannulated screw inserted from the base of the radial styloid and dorsal radius to the carpal joint. Cancellous allografts were added to the decorticated wrist bones. One wrist was treated with this technique and followed for a minimum of 6 months. Indications for fusion was old arthritis secondary to SLAC. Patient was evaluated before surgery and at final follow-up using the VAS pain score and grip strength measurements using a hand-held dynamometer.
Results: The patient improved his grip strength and decreased his pain score. Was suitable fusion united, and no dorsal soft tissue problems or required implant removal. This device deliver stable fixation, facilitates hand placement, and does not require removal.
Conclusions: The use of cannulated screws for radiocarpal fusion is a good easy alternative for wrist fusion without the problem of the size of the plate device commonly used.