[Acromelic arthritis: a new entity].

Purpose Of The Study: Few patients with rheumatoid arthritis present isolated acromelic bone and joint destructions. Concerned joints are wrist, MP, PIP, DIP and forefoot. The aim of the current study is to describe and evaluate the long-term results of wrist, hand and forefoot surgery in an acromelic arthritis group.

Material And Methods: 93 patients with acromelic arthritis were included in the study. 202 surgical procedures were performed between 1981 and 2001 in addition to medical treatment. 93 procedures concerned dorsal wrist surgery. The mean follow-up of this group was 7 years (24 months-20 years). 78 synovectomies of radio-carpal and medio-carpal joints with a Sauvé-Kapandji procedure were performed and 10 with a radio-lunate arthrodesis and 5 with other surgeries. The main indication for surgery was severe pain.

Results: Functional results and radiographic evolution (Larsen X-ray classification) were studied. All patients were satisfied or very satisfied and pain was significantly reduced. Radiographic lesions progressed but Larsen's stage remained unchanged in 73% of patients. All patients with forefoot surgery recovered total walk autonomy.

Discussion: Acromelic arthritis is a particular form of rheumatoid arthritis that progresses very slowly. Surgery should be indicated earlier, for a better joint function stabilisation.