Inflammatory and degenerative conditions of the hand and wrist

Abstract

During the review period, advances were made in the understanding and treatment of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and miscellaneous inflammatory conditions of the hand and wrist. Anatomic studies of trapeziometacarpal arthritis of the thumb have given rise to modifications of proven procedures. Critical analyses of the radiographic progression of rheumatoid arthritis allow the planning of earlier interventions to prevent late deformities. The biomechanical and pathologic causes of digital ulnar drift are becoming clear with recent studies. Soft tissue reconstructions are effective in treating this deformity. Clinical data have supported the efficacy of conservative management of de Quervain's disease and have elucidated the pathoanatomy of those cases that require surgical intervention.