Arthroscopic Treatment of Capitate Nonunion: A New Technique

J Wrist Surg. 2021 Jul 19;11(4):353-357. doi: 10.1055/s-0041-1732410. eCollection 2022 Aug.

Abstract

Isolated fractures of the capitate are very rare which means that their nonunion is even rarer. Repair techniques have always been performed by open surgery which may result in loss of mobility due to the capsulotomy. The typically used surgical techniques such as arthrodesis of the carpal or wrist bones can have irreversible consequences on range of motion. No arthroscopic technique has ever been described for this condition. Here, we describe a case of isolated capitate nonunion without ligament tears or other carpal fractures in a 21-year-old male, following a capitate fracture 10 years prior. We describe our arthroscopic treatment technique for this capitate nonunion.

Keywords: arthroscopy; bone graft; capitate nonunion; wrist surgery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports