Costo-osteochondral graft (rib graft) reconstruction of the irreparable proximal scaphoid.

We present our series of 21 cases in which proximal scaphoid nonunions with fragmentation were treated with costo-osteochondral graft reconstruction (rib graft). The median follow-up was 29 months. Union was achieved in all 21 patients. There were significant improvements in subjective and objective outcome measurements and carpal alignment was well maintained in all patients, as shown by normal postoperative capitolunate angle measurements. No donor site complications were encountered. Rib graft reconstruction offers a reliable and straightforward option for the difficult problem of the irreparable proximal pole of the scaphoid.Level of evidence: IV.