Arthroscopic Resection of the Proximal Capitate With Tendon Interposition for Isolated Capitolunate Osteoarthritis: A Retrospective Series of Six Cases.

PURPOSE: Isolated capitolunate joint osteoarthritis is a rare condition with a poorly understood pathophysiology. To avoid midcarpal arthrodesis in active patients, we propose arthroscopic resection of the proximal pole of the capitate with tendon interposition (arthroscopic capitolunate tendinous interposition [ACLTI]). This study aimed to present the outcomes of patients after undergoing ACLTI.

METHODS

This retrospective, single-center study included six patients with isolated capitolunate osteoarthritis who underwent capitate resection combined with ACLTI. The mean follow-up period was 89.3 months. Assessments included the visual analog scale score for pain, joint range of motion, grip strength, Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) score, and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) score. A descriptive and comparative preoperative and postoperative analysis was conducted.

RESULTS

The postoperative results showed substantial improvement in the median pain scores, with a visual analog scale score of 0/10 compared with 5/10 before surgery. The mean PRWE score improved to 17.2 ± 14.2, QuickDASH score to 21.5 ± 6.5, extension to 74.2° ± 11.1°, flexion to 70° ± 13.8°, and grip strength to 25 ± 9.5 kg. No complications were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthroscopic resection of the proximal capitate with tendon interposition appears to be an effective therapeutic option for active patients with isolated capitolunate osteoarthritis. This approach does not preclude the possibility of secondary arthrodesis in case of failure.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic V.