Intercarpal fusion for treatment of carpal instability: a preliminary report.

Post-traumatic instability was once considered to be a rare but important injury recognized among the various carpal trauma. However, recent literature suggests that reports on this entity are increasing in number. Methods of treatment for this injury were few in the past and were not well established. Following the lesson of 2 cases of failure with open reduction and ligamentous reconstruction, 4 such cases were treated by intercarpal fusion; 3 had no pain or tenderness at a follow-up period of 16 months to 27 months. This procedure should be performed before radiocarpal degenerative arthritis develops.