Arthrodesis of the Wrist by the Method of Mannerfelt: A Follow-Up Of 19 Patients

Abstract

Twenty-four wrists in 21 patients were treated with arthrodesis by the Mannerfelt method. Seventeen patients had rheumatoid arthritis and 4 osteoarthrosis. Stable radiocarpal ankylosis was obtained within 3 months in all cases. Postoperative complications were few and slight. Fusion of the carpo-matacarpal joints occurred spontaneously in a number of the patients. Minor mobility in the carpo-metacarpal joints of the transfixed digit was not the cause of essential complaints. It was not necessary to remove the osteosynthesis material in any patient. At follow-up all patients but 3 were satisfied with the position of the wrist, aimed to be close to neutral.

Key Words:

• arthrodesisrheumatoid arthritis
• wrist joint