Arthroscopic reconstruction for unstable scaphoid non-union

Abstract Objective To evaluate the results of arthroscopic reconstruction for the treatment of unstable scaphoid non-union with cancellous bone autograft. Methods 13 patients were treated with a mean age of 26 (18–45) years. The average time from injury until surgery was 14 (6–48) months. Preoperative and postoperative clinical and radiological parameters were evaluated. Mean follow-up was 16.8 (12–36) months. Results Consolidation was achieved in all cases at 7 (4–10 weeks), no patient had complications or reoperations. Range of motion, pain, functional assessment (DASH questionnaire) and radiological measurements improved compared to preoperative measurements. The average range of flexion improved: flexion 71.9° (55°–80°) to 81.7° (55°–90°), extension 66.3° (30°–80°) to 84.4° (70°–90°), ulnar deviation 21.5 (10°–25°) to 25.5° (20°–45°) and radial deviation 11.9° (5°–25°) to 13.3° (10th–20th). Pain (VAS 0–10) improved from 6.8 (4–10) to 0.7 (0–3). DASH functional scale improved from 36 (12–78) to 8 (0–10). The Scapho-Lunate Angle improved from 67.7° (62°–88°) to 47° (32°–55°), and the Radio-Lunate Angle improved from 30.8° (10°–45°) to 4(0°–10°). Conclusion Treatment of unstable scaphoid non-union with cancellous bone graft assisted by arthroscopy presents good clinical results with a short period of consolidation and recovery.