proximal row carpectomy
Also written as: PRC — proximal row carpectomy
Salvage wrist procedure removing scaphoid, lunate, and triquetrum to create new radiocapitate articulation.
Full Definition
Proximal row carpectomy (PRC) is a salvage procedure for advanced wrist arthritis involving surgical removal of the entire proximal carpal row (scaphoid, lunate, and triquetrum bones). This creates a new articulation between the radius and capitate bone, effectively converting the wrist into a simple hinge joint. The procedure is indicated for conditions such as scapholunate advanced collapse (SLAC) arthritis, scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (SNAC) arthritis, or avascular necrosis of the lunate (Kienböck disease) when the capitate head and lunate fossa of the radius have preserved cartilage. PRC typically provides better range of motion than four-corner fusion but may result in less grip strength. The procedure requires careful patient selection, as the radiocapitate joint must be relatively intact for optimal outcomes. Recovery involves gradual mobilization and strengthening over several months.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as PRC; ensure radiocapitate joint condition is documented when considering procedure.
In Context
- "Proximal row carpectomy provided excellent pain relief with preservation of 60% wrist motion." — Follow-up note
- "The patient underwent proximal row carpectomy after failed scaphoid repair with good cartilage preservation noted intraoperatively." — Operative report