Functional and Radiological Outcomes of Resurfacing Capitate Pyrocarbon Implantation after Proximal Row Carpectomy in Advanced Wrist Osteoarthritis

Objective: Placement of a Resurfacing Capitate Pyrocarbon Implant (RCPI) after proximal row carpectomy represents a reliable option for patients with osteoarthritis of the capitate head. Methods: This is a retrospective study that evaluated clinically and radiologically 18 patients who underwent RCPI implantation, with a mean follow-up of 34 months. Results: The postoperative pain decreased significantly in all patients (from 6 to 2 on a scale of 1 to 10), and mobility and grip strength remained sufficient for activities of daily living in most patients. Radiological assessment showed progression of osteoarthritic changes in all wrists, and 11 demonstrated an increase in the radiolucent line around the implant, which stabilized after 1 year. One implant presented distal protrusion without clinical repercussion. Nearly 80% of patients reported satisfaction with the placement of the implant. The remaining 20% had residual pain in daily activities. Only 1 patient required total wrist arthrodesis. Conclusion: Despite the evolution of osteoarthritic changes in all radiographs, such as osteophyte formation or rise of the radiolucent line around the implant, most patients were satisfied with the clinical outcomes, underscoring the discordance between the clinical status and radiologic images and supporting the use of interposition pyrocarbon materials. Cite this article as: Bruyneel J, Gkotsi A, Madani A, Kassi WE. Resurfacing capitate implant after proximal row carpectomy in advanced wrist osteoarthritis: A retrospective study. Acta Orthop Traumatol Turc., 2026; 60(2), 0308 doi:10.5152/j.aott.2026.25308