Partial capitate shortening for Kienböck's disease.

The purpose of this study was to report our experience of partial capitate shortening in seven patients with a median 38 months follow-up. Staging was made by the Lichtman classification system and stage II and III-A patients were included in the study. The mean age was 34 years (range 22-52). Patients were assessed for pain, range of motion, grip and pinch strength, and satisfaction was recorded using a scale between 0 and 4. All these parameters showed improvement after surgery. The Lichtman stage, lunate height index and carpal height index were determined radiographically. Magnetic resonance images of the wrist were studied for lunate revascularization at the final follow-up and occurred in all patients. According to our study, partial capitate shortening seems an effective treatment for Lichtman stage II and III-A patients.Level IV case series study.