Kienböck Disease Classification From Lichtman to Contemporary Approaches

Abstract

The incidence of Kienböck's disease is about 3 per 100,000 patients, predominantly affects male. There are many classification systems used with this condition. They are radiographic, magnetic resonance, arthroscopic and combined. The main radiographic classification for aseptic necrosis of the lunate, which is used today, is that of D. Lichtman. The main magnetic resonance classification is that of Schmitt, and the most widely used arthroscopic classification is that of Bain and Begg. Regardless of the classification system used, the ultimate goal is the accurate staging of the disease and the determination of an appropriate treatment method. The clinical outcome highly depend on that.