Hand surgery & rehabilitation
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We report our experience with the arthroscopic treatment of 23 cases of scaphoid nonunion. We explain the surgical technique and describe the different steps needed to achieve bone union. We report our initial clinical and radiological results. ⋯ Traction is used during the operation to restore the scaphoid height, once debridement has been completed. Use of the compacted cancellous bone plugs adds stability to the nonunion site and helps to fill the defect. We have yet to encounter a case in which this technique cannot be used (other than the presence of radiocarpal or midcarpal arthritis), whether there is a large bone defect or the nonunion site is very proximal.