Computed tomography in partial carpal arthrodesis

We carried out X-rays and computed tomography in 59 wrists in patients who had previous surgical intercarpal fusions. 1.2 mm thick axial images were obtained perpendicular to the axis of the joint. CT showed whether or not the carpal fusions were united. Compared with CT, plain radiography yielded a 25% false negative and 6% false positive rate. We conclude that CT is more useful than plain X-rays for evaluating partial carpal arthrodesis.