What is Kienböck's Disease?
Kienböck's disease is a condition where the blood supply to one of the small bones in the wrist, the lunate, is interrupted. Bone is living tissue that requires a regular supply of blood for nourishment. If the blood supply to a bone stops, the bone can die. This is called osteonecrosis. Damage to the lunate causes a painful, stiff wrist and, over time, can lead to arthritis. Cause The cause of Kienböck's disease is not known. Many people with Kienböck's disease think they have a sprained wrist at first. They may have experienced some form of trauma to the wrist, such as a fall. This type of trauma can disrupt the blood flow to the lunate. Some things may put you more at risk for the disease. For example, most people have two vessels that supply blood to the lunate, but in some people there is only one source. This may slow the blood flow to the bone. In addition, if the two bones of the forearm (the radius and ulna) are different lengths, extra pressure can be put on the lunate during some wrist motions. Over time, this extra stress on the bone may lead to Kienböck's disease. Want to learn more? The following are organizations and/or websites dedicated to providing information and education surrounding Kienböck's Disease. These organizations are dedicated to research, education, awareness, and/or support. They are listed in Alphabetical order without any preference or prejudice. Listing these organizations is not a recommendation or referral in any regard for seeking treatment or consultation or support for treatment. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons American Society for Surgery of the Hand Medscape Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush National Organization for Rare Disorder |
Diagnosis
Kienböck's disease is a condition that progresses slowly, and many people do not decide to see a doctor until they have lived with symptoms for several months, perhaps longer. Stage 1 During the first stage of the disease, the symptoms are similar to those of a wrist sprain. Although the blood supply to the lunate has been disrupted, x-rays may still appear normal or suggest a possible fracture. An MRI scan can better detect blood flow and is helpful in making the diagnosis in this early stage. Stage 2 The lunate bone begins to harden due to the lack of blood supply during Stage 2. This hardening process is called sclerosis. In addition, the lunate will appear brighter or whiter in areas on x-rays, which indicates that the bone is dying. To better assess the condition of the lunate, your doctor may also order either MRI scans or computed tomography (CT) scans. The most common symptoms during this stage are wrist pain, swelling, and tenderness. Stage 3 In Stage 3, the dead lunate bone begins to collapse and break into pieces. As the bone begins to break apart, the surrounding bones may begin to shift position. During this stage, patients typically experience increasing pain, weakness in gripping, and limited wrist motion. Stage 4 If the condition progresses to Stage 4, the surfaces of the bones surrounding the lunate also deteriorate, and the wrist may become arthritic. |
What are the treatment options for Kienbock's disease?
Non-surgical Treatment Options There is no cure for Kienbock's disease, but there are treatments options that can help restore the blood supply and maximize wrist function and reduce pain. If caught in an early stage, anti-inflammatory medication (such as ibuprofen) may be recommended in addition to a splint or cast. If the pain persists or returns, surgery may be advised. Surgical Treatment Options Surgical treatment depends on the severity of the condition. A physician may recommend one of the following options:
Information on this page taken directly from: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush |
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The information contained in this website is not to be interpreted as medical advice. It is intended to bring awareness to health issues that are difficult to recognize and diagnose, even in the medical community. Information contained herein may change without notice. See a medical professional familiar with your condition for medical advice.
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Chiari Gear™ is legally trademarked. All images used on our merchandise is copyrighted. Our name, images and original designs are subject to U.S. Trademark and Copyright law.
All customer photos have been posted with permission from the customer. To submit your photo or to have your photo removed, email us HERE