Custom-made wrist prosthesis in a patient with giant cell tumor of the distal radius

Introduction

Treatment for giant cell tumors of the distal radius is challenging when motion is to be preserved. As standard wrist prostheses typically do not achieve favorable results, we treated a 36-year-old man with giant cell tumor of the distal radius with a new, custom-made implant.

Methods

A custom-made wrist prosthesis with a long shaft was designed according to the patient’s X-ray findings. After complete tumor resection, the prosthesis was subsequently implanted into the distal radius without complications.

Results

Two months after surgery, range of motion was 30°-0-25° for extension/flexion, 10°-0-5° for ulnar/radial abduction, 80°-0-0 for pronation/supination, complete range of motion for the fingers, and a grip strength of 6 kg. Two years after surgery, implant position was still correct and range of motion was 45°-0-10° for extension/flexion, 10°-0-20° for ulnar/radial abduction, and 80°-0-10° for pronation/supination. Grip strength was 16 kg, and DASH score was 25 compared to 39 before surgery. The patient returned to work as a craftsman.

Conclusion

Custom-made wrist prostheses could become a practical option in patients with large defects of the distal radius who desire to preserve wrist motion.