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Kienbock Disease
Pronunciation: KEE-en-bock
Avascular necrosis of the lunate bone in the wrist, often requiring surgical intervention.
Full Definition
Kienbock disease is a condition characterized by avascular necrosis of the lunate bone, one of the small bones in the wrist. The exact etiology remains unclear, but factors including ulnar variance, lunate morphology, and repetitive trauma may contribute. The disease progresses through distinct stages from initial bone death to eventual carpal collapse and arthritis. Treatment options range from immobilization in early stages to various surgical procedures including radial shortening, lunate excision, or wrist fusion depending on disease progression.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize the 'K' as it's an eponymous disease name.
In Context
- "Stage III Kienbock disease required lunate excision and capitate-hamate fusion." — surgical case report
- "MRI confirmed the diagnosis of early-stage Kienbock disease." — diagnostic imaging report
Also known as
lunate malacia
lunate avascular necrosis
Don't confuse with
scapholunate dissociation
ulnar impaction syndrome