Long-term results of denervation of the wrist joint for chronic wrist pain.

The results have been evaluated of 29 patients who had wrist denervation for chronic wrist pain between 1979 and 1987. Follow-up ranged from 22 to 86 months (mean 51 months). 17 patients had denervation without a concurrent procedure. Of these, 12% became pain-free and 71% had pain with all activities or had additional surgery; 24% said they were satisfied with their treatment. The results were worse in those who had partial denervation than those who had total denervation. 12 patients had denervation performed concurrently with another pain-relieving procedure. Denervation alone was not reliable in resolving chronic wrist pain.