Capitate-radius arthrodesis: an alternative method of radiocarpal arthrodesis.

Arthrodesis of the wrist may be indicated for a variety of conditions and can be achieved by many techniques. We have had experience with radiocarpal arthrodesis by fusion of the capitate to the radius after a modified proximal row carpectomy . The common feature in our 10 patients was a flexion deformity of the wrist. In five of the patients it was the result of spastic posturing. Five of the patients had a variety of other conditions. Primary arthrodesis occurred in all patients and the cosmetic improvement was appreciated by all patients. Functional improvement seemed to be most related to the preoperative condition. The follow-up evaluation averaged 5.4 years with a range from 6 months to 11 years.