Precision Medicine for Kienböck Disease in the 21st Century.

J Hand Surg Am · Jul 2022 · Review

Lichtman DM, Pientka WF, MacLean S, Bain G

Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Flinders University and Flinders Medical Centre, Adelaide, Australia

Hand & Upper Extremity Pediatric Orthopaedics

SUMMARY — THE REDUCTIONProposes a single unified classification and treatment algorithm for Kienböck disease that merges radiographic, contrast-MRI, and cartilage-degeneration systems with newer surgical options to enable more individualized treatment planning.
Abstract, as published

One of the most popular treatment algorithms for Kienböck disease is based on a progression of successive radiographic changes that was developed in the 1970s. Since then, 2 other important classifications systems have been introduced. One is centered on contrasted magnetic resonance imaging findings and the other, articular cartilage degeneration. All 3 systems have been used, in isolation, to recommend specific treatment modalities. To coordinate all available clinical data and to simplify the treatment selection process, we combined the 3 classification systems into 1 unified classification and treatment algorithm. With the added consideration of some recently introduced surgical options and further knowledge of how Kienböck disease affects children and the elderly, we anticipate that this unified classification system will allow for a more precise and individualized treatment plan.

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