KIENBÖCK’S DISEASE

If you suffer from painful  and stiff wrist please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible

What is Kienböck’s Disease?

Kienböck’s disease, also known as avascular necrosis of the lunate, is a condition that affects the wrist joint. It occurs when the blood supply to the lunate bone, one of the small bones in the wrist, is disrupted, leading to its gradual death or deterioration.

The exact cause of Kienböck’s disease is still not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of factors, including trauma, anatomical variations, and reduced blood flow to the lunate bone. It most commonly affects individuals in their 20s to 40s, and it is more common in men than in women.

Indication Of Kienböck’s Disease

The progression of Kienböck’s disease typically involves several stages; however, it is important to note that the progression of symptoms and stages of Kienböck’s disease can vary among individuals. If you experience persistent wrist pain, swelling, or limited wrist function, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

1. Stage I: In the early stages, there may be mild or no symptoms, and X-rays may not show any significant changes. However, microscopic changes in the blood supply to the lunate bone may already be present.
2. Stage II: As the condition progresses, the blood supply to the lunate bone continues to be compromised, leading to the death of bone tissue. This can result in wrist pain, stiffness, and swelling. X-rays may show evidence of bone collapse or sclerosis.
3. Stage III: In this stage, the lunate bone becomes fragmented and begins to collapse. This can cause further pain, limited wrist motion, and possible arthritis of the surrounding joints. X-rays typically reveal significant changes in the bone structure.

Treatment For Kienböck’s Disease

The treatment for Kienböck’s disease depends on the stage of the condition and the severity of symptoms. Conservative treatments may include immobilization of the wrist with a splint or cast, pain management with medications, and physical therapy to maintain wrist mobility and strength.

In more advanced cases, surgical interventions may be considered. These can range from procedures to reestablish blood supply to the lunate bone (such as vascularized bone grafting) to procedures that aim to alter the alignment of the bones in the wrist joint to relieve pressure on the lunate bone.

The goal of treatment is to alleviate pain, restore wrist function, and prevent further deterioration of the lunate bone. Early diagnosis and treatment offer the best chances of successful outcomes in managing Kienböck’s disease. If you suspect you may have this condition, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Upper Extremity Specialist in North Texas, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.