Scaphotrapeziotrapezoid arthrodesis: a follow-up study.
OBJECTIVE
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.
Watson
H Kirk
HK
Connecticut Combined Hand Surgery, Hartford Hospital, University of Connecticut, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, USA.
Wollstein
Ronit
R
Joseph
Emmanuella
E
Manzo
Richard
R
Weinzweig
Jeffrey
J
Ashmead
Duffield
D
D000328:Adult; D018771:Arthralgia / Q000503:physiopathology; D001174:Arthrodesis; D002348:Carpal Bones / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D018737:Hand Strength / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular / Q000502:physiology; D013997:Time Factors; D014937:Work / Q000502:physiology; D014955:Wrist Joint / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*