Wrist Arthrodesis in Rheumatoid Arthritis Using an LCP Metaphyseal Locking Plate versus an AO Wrist Fusion Plate

OBJECTIVES: Although wrist arthrodesis using a plate is an established treatment with a well-documented successful union rate for severely destroyed wrists, plate-related complications are a matter of great concern. METHODS: We retrospectively compared wrist arthrodesis using an AO wrist fusion plate in nine and a locking compression plate (LCP) metaphyseal plate in seven cases of rheumatoid arthritis. RESULTS: The mean follow-up was 40.6 months in the AO wrist fusion plate group and 57.2 months in the LCP metaphyseal plate group. Bone union at the arthrodesis site was achieved in all cases in both groups. Comparison of the original position of the fusion on the immediate postoperative radiographs and the position on the most recent follow-up radiographs demonstrated good stability in both groups. Plate-related complications occurred in four cases in the AO wrist fusion plate group and no cases in the LCP metaphyseal plate group. Complications included pain over the plate, wound dehiscence and infection, extensor tendon adhesion, and fracture in one case each. CONCLUSION: Wrist arthrodesis using an LCP metaphyseal plate was favorable for rheumatoid arthritis patients with comparable stability to that of and a lower risk of plate-related complications than an AO wrist fusion plate.