Kienböck’s Disease

Avascular necrosis (bone loss resulting from devascularization) of the lunate bone in the wrist is called Kienböck’s disease. Since the lunate bone plays an important role in wrist movements, damage to this bone can cause pain, joint movement limitation and sometimes the development of arthrosis. It is usually seen in men between the ages of 20-40. Anatomical variations can be seen in conditions such as trauma, lupus disease, sickle cell syndrome and cerebral palsy.

Wrist pain, tenderness in the lunate bone, decreased wrist movements and swelling can often be observed. Diagnosis can be made through direct x-ray and MRI examinations performed after suspicion. CT examinations can also be performed. Since it is a slowly progressing process, it may be difficult to diagnose the disease in its early stages.

In case of early stage disease, follow-up, movement restriction and activity regulation may be sufficient, whereas in advanced stage disease, surgical treatment may be required.