Complications and pitfalls of rheumatoid hand and wrist reconstruction

Abstract

Surgical reconstruction of the rheumatoid hand and wrist involves skill and experience. The rheumatoid tissues are fragile and the disease evolves spontaneously, making the procedures difficult and the results unpredictable over the long term. I have reviewed the literature in English and French published during the past few years with special emphasis on the complications and pitfalls of this surgery. Many complications or unsatisfactory results have been reported, but many of these are now predictable and their prevention is possible. The most difficult problem remains treatment of these complications, and this also has been addressed in the recent literature.