[Osteomalacia of the lunate bone--indications for and limitations of radial shortening and ulnar lengthening].

Increased pressure on the lunate bone due to anatomical variance seems to be an important etiological factor in Kienböck's disease. Early diagnosis and treatment may prevent the development of carpal collapse. Ulnar lengthening and radial shortening have proven helpful in stages I-III of Kienböck's disease.