Purpose: To document the changes in wrist loading that occur after proximal row carpectomy in a cadaver model.
Methods: The normal radioulnar carpal pressure distributions of 7 cadaver wrists were measured using super-low-pressure-sensitive film. Proximal row carpectomies were performed and the loading characteristics re-evaluated.
Results: In the lunate fossa the contact area increased 37%, the average contact pressure increased 57%, and the location of the contact moved radially 5.5 mm. With wrist motion between 40 degrees of extension and 20 degrees of flexion the volar/dorsal excursion of the lunate fossa contact point increased by 108%.
Conclusions: Significant changes in radiocarpal loading occur after proximal row carpectomy. The increased radiocarpal excursion with wrist motion may explain the low incidence of radiocapitate arthritis in patients who have had proximal row carpectomy.