Kienbock disease
Pronunciation: KEEN-buhk
Avascular necrosis of the lunate bone in the wrist, causing progressive collapse and arthritis.
Full Definition
Kienbock disease is a progressive condition characterized by avascular necrosis of the lunate bone, one of the eight carpal bones in the wrist. The disease typically affects young adults and involves gradual death of bone tissue due to interrupted blood supply. As the condition progresses, the lunate bone may collapse and fragment, leading to altered wrist mechanics, pain, stiffness, and eventual radiocarpal arthritis. The exact etiology remains unclear, though factors such as negative ulnar variance, repetitive trauma, and individual vascular anatomy may contribute to its development.
Usage
Usage note: Also spelled Kienböck disease with umlaut in German literature
In Context
- "MRI findings were consistent with Stage III Kienbock disease showing lunate collapse." — Radiological report
- "The patient underwent proximal row carpectomy for advanced Kienbock disease with secondary arthritis." — Operative report