title: Arthrodesis of the wrist.
abstract: In a retrospective study, the wrists of 18 patients who underwent arthrodesis by the AO technique were assessed clinically, for hand strength and function. Follow-up averaged 4 years (range from 1 to 7 years). Although wrist arthrodesis improved grip strength, it was still only 50% to 60% of normal. Hand function improved to within normal limits in 78% of patients and bony union occurred in 94.4%. Thirteen patients were back at work within 18 months. The AO technique of wrist arthrodesis allows correction of deformity, relief of pain, increased grip strength and improved hand function.
mesh_terms: D001174:Arthrodesis / Q000009:adverse effects; D006225:Hand / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D010003:Osteoarthritis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D014955:Wrist Joint / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*