Proximal Row Carpectomy

Proximal row carpectomy is a motion sparing procedure for symptomatic radiocarpal arthritis. It is performed with relative ease and without permanent implants. Excision of the proximal carpal row preserves nearly a 70 degree arc of wrist flexion/extension and 70% to 90% of grip strength. Outcomes have proven durable in studies with over 10 years of follow-up. Late radiographic degeneration between the capitate and radius is expected in the majority of cases but has not correlated with clinical outcome. Recent modifications to the procedure include capitate resection and dorsal capsular interposition, which may negate the traditional requirement for uninjured capitate and distal radius articular surfaces.