Long-term outcome of nonsurgically managed Kienböck's disease.

PURPOSE

To analyze the natural history of patients with Kienböck's disease who did not have any surgical treatment-in effect, to map the pattern of the disease process.

METHODS

Thirty-three patients (33 wrists) with conservatively treated Kienböck's disease had a full clinical and radiologic review. The review involved an assessment of pain, range of motion, function, grip strength, and patient satisfaction, as well as a detailed radiologic evaluation.

RESULTS

Analysis of the results shows reduction in the range of motion of the wrist, particularly flexion, with progression of the disease process. In addition grip strength deteriorated by 40% between stages 2 and 4. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand evaluation system also showed deterioration between stages 2 and 4. Radiologic progression was best measured by the radioscaphoid angle.

CONCLUSIONS

Kienböck's disease is progressive and does pass through the various stages described by Lichtman. Progression can be monitored clinically by the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score and the loss of flexion of the wrist. Radiologic progression is best measured by the radioscaphoid angle.