Kienbock’s Disease

What is Kienbock’s Disease?

Kienbock’s Disease affects the blood supply to a small bone in the wrist called the lunate. This condition causes pain, swelling, and limited mobility in its early stage. If it progresses, it can collapse the bone. Kienbock’s disease progresses in four stages:

  • Stage One: Symptoms which mimic wrist sprain develop.
  • Stage Two: The lunate bone begins to harden.
  • Stage Three: The lunate bone begins to deteriorate.
  • Stage Four: Surface of nearby bones is affected. Arthritis may develop.
SYMPTOMS:
  • Pain and swelling in the wrist
  • Stiffness and limited range of motion
  • Weakened grip strength
TREATMENT:

During the initial stage of the disease, treatment options include immobilization and anti- inflammatory medication to reduce swelling and pain. If symptoms persist, or if the disease progresses, surgical treatments may be available.

Available surgical treatments include:

  • Bone grafting: to restore blood supply to the area.
  • Joint Leveling: used when the bones in the forearm are uneven, causing pressure on the lunate.
  • Proximal Row Carpectomy (removal of deteriorated bones in the wrist): to relieve pain and swelling while maintaining partial mobility.
  • Bone Fusion: used in severe cases after wrist bones have deteriorated. This procedure offers relief from pain and swelling, though range of motion in the wrist will be limited.

Dr. Fiore specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of Keinbock’s Disease. He is board certified by the American Board of Surgery and fellowship trained in hand surgery. For more information on treatment options, or to schedule a consultation, call Fiore Hand and Wrist at (281) 970-8002.

We are conveniently located within driving distance of Cypress TX, Katy TX, Spring TX, Tomball TX, The Woodlands TX, and Houston TX.

For more information please visit Handcare.org.