Short and Medium-Term Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes Following Arthroscopic Partial Wrist Arthrodeses – A Systematic Review

Background: Partial wrist arthrodesis (PWA) is a salvage procedure used in advanced wrist arthritis and has traditionally been performed via an open dorsal approach. In recent years, surgeons have moved towards arthroscopic fusions to minimise soft tissue damage and preserve vascular supply, increase union rates and hasten recovery. The purpose of this study is to synthesise the current literature on the outcomes of arthroscopic PWA.

Methods: A systematic review was performed to survey the literature regarding outcomes of PWA. English language studies that reported original data and commented on at least one postoperative measure of function were eligible for inclusion. Data collected included patient demographics, operation time and technique, complications and postoperative patient outcomes in the form of patient-rated surveys, grip strength, range of motion and the pain visual analogue scale (VAS).

Results: Twelve studies were eligible for inclusion, with a total of 191 patients. 94% of patients achieved union, with a mean time to fusion of 12.5 weeks. VAS, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and Mayo Wrist scores were significantly improved after the procedure, and complication rates were comparable to open procedures. Range of motion varied greatly across studies, due to heterogeneity in carpal intervals fused.

Conclusions: Arthroscopic PWA is a safe and effective procedure in the treatment of advanced arthritis of the wrist. Further comparative studies would be useful in assessing benefits of arthroscopic arthrodesis over an open approach.

Level of Evidence: Level III (Therapeutic)