Abstract
Abstract
Background
Scaphoid non-union can result in pain, altered wrist kinematics leading to a Scaphoid Non-union Advance Collapse, ultimately to symptomatic radio-carpal arthritis. Open techniques have their limitations. We describe the rationale, surgical technique and outcomes of our series of arthroscopic bone-grafting (ABG) and fixation of scaphoid non-union.
Methods
We performed a prospective single-surgeon series of 22 consecutive patients with clinico-radiologically established scaphoid non-union between March 2015 and April 2019. Data was collected from Electronic Patient Records, Patient Archived Computer system (PACS) and hand therapy assessments. We collected demographic data including age, hand-dominance, occupation and mechanism of injury. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Score (Quick DASH), Mayo wrist score, Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) and grip-strength measurements were collected preoperatively and at follow-up appointments.
Results
There was an improvement in all outcome measures when comparing preoperative and postoperative results. The Quick DASH score improved by a mean of 24 points, Mayo wrist and PRWE scores improved by 15.1 and 29.7 points, respectively. Grip-strength analysis also improved by 6.1 kgf (Right) and 3.3kgf (Left). Follow-up computerised tomography scans revealed union in 18/22 patients with 2 patients lost to follow-up. One patient required revision ABG procedure to achieve union.
Conclusion
Arthroscopic bone grafting and fixation of scaphoid non-union allows a minimally invasive method of managing these injuries. It has advantages of minimal morbidity and accurate articular reduction resulting in less postoperative stiffness and increased functional outcomes. It is an effective alternative to conventional open treatment of established scaphoid non-union.
