[Resection of nerve of wrist combining replacement of lunate with bone cement prosthesis in treatment of Kienbock's disease].

OBJECTIVE

There are various methods used to treat the Kienbock's disease with various outcomes. This study investigated the effect of combining acrylic lunate prosthesis replacement with resection of articular branches to wrist from anterior and dorsal interosseous nerve.

METHODS

From January 1992 to January 1997, six cases were included. All of the patients were in stage III according to Lichtman's classification. Besides replacement of the acrylic lunate prosthesis, segment of the pure sensory branches from anterior and posterior interosseous nerves were resected.

RESULTS

Follow-up for 10 to 54 months (an average of 32 months) the pain was relieved in all patients except one. The range of movement of wrists were as followings: The extension of the wrist was 20 to 35 degrees (an average of 26 degrees) and flexion was 20 to 35 degrees (an average of 32 degrees). There was no improvement in radial and ulnar deviation.

CONCLUSION

Lunate prosthesis replacement combined with resection of articular branches to wrist resulted in a painless wrist and was a satisfactory method.