Four-corner arthrodesis with a dorsal locking plate: 4-9-year follow-up

We report the outcomes of four-corner arthrodesis for advanced wrist collapse in 50 patients (51 wrists) using a dorsal locking plate. At a mean follow-up of 6 years (range 4-9), pain was significantly reduced and wrist function was significantly improved compared with preoperative status. After four-corner arthrodesis, grip strength was 80% of the contralateral side, and wrist motion averaged 50 degrees flexion-extension and 30 degrees radioulnar deviation. Immobilization time was 5 weeks (4-6) and sick-leave was 3 months (2-5) following surgery. There were seven nonunions (14%) that underwent repeat arthrodesis. Three wrists were later converted to total arthrodesis due to persisting pain. Radiographic dorsal impingement was found in five wrists after four-corner arthrodesis and did not require reoperation. The outcomes appear not remarkably different from those reported using other fixation methods other than an apparent earlier return to activities.