Outcomes of Proximal Row Carpectomy With Interposition Arthroplasty for Advanced Wrist Arthritis.

Background: This study aimed to evaluate and compare the outcomes of proximal row carpectomy (PRC) with interposition arthroplasty using dorsal wrist capsule interposition, lateral meniscus allograft, or dermal allograft in patients with lunate facet/capitate degeneration.

Methods: Patients who underwent PRC with interposition arthroplasty between 2010 and 2022 at a single institution were identified. Preoperative and postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) pain, functional outcomes, and complications were recorded.

Results: Twenty-one patients (11 dorsal capsule, 6 meniscus, 4 dermal matrix) were identified with a mean follow-up of 65.8 months. Postoperative pain and functional outcome scores significantly improved. The mean postoperative Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was 20.3. In total, 89.5% of patients returned to work, including 75% of manual laborers.

Conclusions: No significant differences were found between dorsal capsular flap versus allograft groups. Proximal row carpectomy with interposition arthroplasty is an effective motion-sparing procedure for patients with proximal capitate and/or lunate fossa arthritis, improving pain and function.