Wrist Arthroplasty in Rheumatoid Arthritis: An Update

The discussion about wrist arthroplasties remains a controversial because the complex movement dynamics of the wrist cannot be reproduced by a prosthesis. Even so the operation has proved to be a very reliable method to reduce pain. The satisfaction level of rheumatoid arthritis patients is high although the gains in freedom of movement and strength may be only moderate. Recent reports demonstrate more favourable life-times for the optimised prosthetic systems, albeit still with only small case numbers and short follow-up times.