Subtotal arthrodeses of the wrist joint.

The goal of subtotal arthrodesis of the wrist is to provide a stable and pain-free joint, with preservation of a limited but useful range of motion. Experience indicates that the available mobility of the joints that are left unfused tends to increase with time and use of the extremity, and that accelerated wear of these joints has not been a problem. Subtotal arthrodeses of the wrist are indicated for: painful arthritis involving one or two radiocarpal or intracarpal joint surfaces, stabilization of carpal collapse deformities, failed ligament reconstructions or repairs, bone tumors with partial carpal involvement, and supplementation of carpal implants, when their insertion alone could precipitate or increase potential carpal instability.