Carpal wedge osteotomy for the arthrogrypotic wrist

Marybeth Ezaki, Peter R. Carter

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

18 Scopus citations

Abstract

The upper limbs of the child with the amyoplasia form of arthrogryposis are typically internally rotated at the shoulders, extended at the elbows, and flexed and deviated ulnarly at the wrists. This position results in an obligatory crossed-limb pattern of bimanual use, as neither hand is sufficiently strong or agile to function independently. A change in the position of deformity to one that allows the palms to come together without crossing the arms, and also allows access to desktops and keyboards, is a reasonable goal for children with this condition. A severe internal rotation deformity at the shoulder can be corrected with external rotation osteotomy, and elbow extension contractures can be released with soft-tissue procedures to increase the passive range of motion. However, most attempts to improve wrist position have been disappointing because they have resulted in the loss of any limited motion that might be present. This paper describes a technique of resection of a portion of the carpus that improves position and retains motion because it spares the radiocarpal joint.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)224-228
Number of pages5
JournalTechniques in Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery
Volume8
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 1 2004

Keywords

  • Amyoplasia
  • Arthrogryposis
  • Carpal wedge osteotomy

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery
  • Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Carpal wedge osteotomy for the arthrogrypotic wrist'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this