[Idiopathic aseptic osteonecrosis of the capitate bone. Literature review apropos of 3 new cases].

The authors report 3 cases of idiopathic avascular necrosis of the capitate and review them together with published reports of 16 further cases. The patients are normally young and the diagnosis delayed. The radiographs may demonstrate an eggshell appearance, a sequestrum, marked sclerosis, or cystic changes. A classification is proposed based on the portion of the bone involved. Early osteoarthritic changes occur and carpal instability may develop. It is suggested that there are features in the blood supply which may be significant. Treatment is by operation, involving either excision of the capitate with replacement with a prosthetic spacer, or else by arthrodesis.