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Clinical and Radiologic Outcomes of the Matti-Russe Technique for Scaphoid Nonunions in Pediatric Patients

Background: Scaphoid fractures are a common injury, and a known complication is nonunion. One option to treat this nonunion is with the Matti-Russe technique, which takes a corticocancellous graft and fits it into the defect without internal fixation. The advent of modern methods of fixation has led the classic Matti-Russe technique to fall out of favor. In this study, we describe the classic technique and evaluate the results of the Matti-Russe method for treatment of scaphoid nonunions specifically for the pediatric population. Our purpose was to evaluate the long-term clinical and radiologic outcomes after surgery for scaphoid nonunion using the Matti-Russe technique in the pediatric population. Methods: A retrospective review was performed of patients less than 17 years of age, with a scaphoid nonunion that was treated with the Matti-Russe technique. This technique consisted of open reduction with intercalated bone graft and no internal fixation with hardware. Union was determined by radiographic evaluation. Computed tomography was obtained in 7 of 10 patients in this series and showed bony bridging in more than 50% of the scaphoid width in 3 different views. Intrascaphoid, scapholunate, and radiolunate angles were calculated. We reviewed wrist range of motion and complications. We obtained postoperative Mayo and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores. Results: There were 10 patients who underwent the Matti-Russe technique. The average age was 14.7 years old (±1.34, range: 13-17). All 10 of these patients had a scaphoid waist nonunion. There were 9 males and 1 female with an average follow-up of 13 months. The average amount of time to surgery from the date of injury was 12.3 months. All 10 patients went on to radiographic union at or before 6 months from surgery. Preoperative intrascaphoid, scapholunate, and radiolunate angles were 29° (±5.38), 62° (±18.28), and 20° (±9.22). Postoperative intrascaphoid, scapholunate, and radiolunate angles improved to 16° (±6.89), 38° (±8.50), and 10° (±4.69), which was significant. Seven out of 10 patients completed postoperative outcomes measures. The average postoperative Mayo wrist score was 87.9 (±14.10, range: 60-100). The average postoperative DASH score was 1.9 (±2.03, range: 0-4.5). There were no associated complications nor reoperations. Conclusion: The Matti-Russe technique is a safe and effective treatment for scaphoid nonunion in the pediatric population. It facilitates scaphoid union without the need for screw fixation and avoiding potential complications with hardware.