Comparison of spanning and non-spanning wrist fusion techniques.

Wrist Fusion: Spanning vs. Non-Spanning—Which Technique Is Right for You?

Lena Voss in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"Discover the latest insights on wrist arthrodesis, comparing spanning and non-spanning techniques for effective pain relief and improved function."

Wrist fusion, also known as wrist arthrodesis, is a surgical procedure designed to alleviate chronic wrist pain and improve stability. It's often recommended for individuals suffering from severe arthritis, traumatic injuries, or other conditions that compromise wrist function. The goal is to eliminate movement at the wrist joint, thus reducing pain and improving overall hand function.

Traditionally, wrist fusion involves the use of a spanning plate, which extends from the forearm to the hand, immobilizing the wrist and some of the hand's small joints (carpometacarpal joints). However, a newer technique, called non-spanning wrist fusion, aims to preserve some of the hand's natural movement by using a shorter plate that only immobilizes the wrist joint itself.

Choosing the right wrist fusion technique can feel overwhelming. In this article, we'll break down the differences between spanning and non-spanning wrist fusion, explore the pros and cons of each, and provide insights to help you make an informed decision about your wrist health. We'll reference a recent study that compared the outcomes of these two techniques.

Spanning vs. Non-Spanning Wrist Fusion: What’s the Difference?

Comparison of spanning and non-spanning wrist fusion techniques.

The primary distinction between spanning and non-spanning wrist fusion lies in the extent of joint immobilization. Spanning fusion, the more traditional approach, involves a longer plate that extends from the radius (forearm bone) to the metacarpals (hand bones), effectively fusing the wrist joint and often including the carpometacarpal (CMC) joints at the base of the thumb and fingers. This method provides maximum stability but eliminates movement not only at the wrist but also at the CMC joints.

Non-spanning fusion, on the other hand, utilizes a shorter plate that only covers the wrist joint, leaving the CMC joints free to move. The theory behind this approach is that preserving some CMC joint motion may improve hand function and grip strength after surgery. The senior author (S.W.W.) of the original research article transitioned to non-spanning techniques because of these perceived benefits. The study we’re referencing compares the outcomes of 15 non-spanning wrist fusions using a 2.4/2.7 mm locking T plate with 11 spanning wrist fusions using a 2.7/3.5 mm locking compression plate.

Spanning Wrist Fusion:
- Longer plate extends from the forearm to the hand.
- Fuses the wrist joint and often includes the CMC joints.
- Provides maximum stability.
- Eliminates movement at the wrist and CMC joints.
Non-Spanning Wrist Fusion:
- Shorter plate covers only the wrist joint.
- Preserves movement at the CMC joints.
- Aims to improve hand function and grip strength.
- May reduce the risk of CMC joint complications.

The choice between these two techniques depends on individual factors, such as the underlying condition, the patient's functional needs, and the surgeon's experience. Both techniques aim to relieve pain and improve overall hand function, but they achieve this through different means.

Making the Right Choice for Your Wrist Fusion

Deciding between spanning and non-spanning wrist fusion requires a thorough discussion with your orthopedic surgeon. Consider your activity level, functional goals, and the potential impact on your daily life. By understanding the nuances of each technique and weighing the potential benefits and risks, you can work with your surgeon to determine the best approach for your individual needs.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1055/s-0037-1606257, Alternate LINK

Title: Nonspanning Total Wrist Arthrodesis With A Low-Profile Locking Plate

Subject: Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Journal: Journal of Wrist Surgery

Publisher: Georg Thieme Verlag KG

Authors: Schneider Rancy, Eugene Ek, Sophia Paul, Robert Hotchkiss, Scott Wolfe

Published: 2017-08-24

Everything You Need To Know

What is wrist fusion, and why is it performed?

Wrist fusion, also known as wrist arthrodesis, is a surgical procedure designed to address chronic wrist pain and instability. It's typically recommended for individuals suffering from severe arthritis, traumatic injuries, or other conditions that compromise wrist function. The primary goal of wrist fusion is to eliminate movement at the wrist joint, which in turn reduces pain and enhances overall hand function. This is achieved through the fusion of the wrist bones, providing a stable but less mobile wrist.

What are the key differences between spanning and non-spanning wrist fusion techniques?

The main distinction lies in the extent of joint immobilization. Spanning wrist fusion involves a longer plate, extending from the radius in the forearm to the metacarpals in the hand, thus fusing the wrist joint and often including the carpometacarpal (CMC) joints. This method offers maximum stability but restricts movement at both the wrist and CMC joints. Non-spanning wrist fusion uses a shorter plate, focusing only on the wrist joint itself. This technique preserves CMC joint movement, potentially improving hand function and grip strength post-surgery.

What are the potential benefits of choosing non-spanning wrist fusion over spanning wrist fusion?

Non-spanning wrist fusion aims to preserve movement at the carpometacarpal (CMC) joints, which may lead to improved hand function and grip strength compared to spanning techniques. By allowing some CMC joint motion, patients might experience a greater range of motion and potentially better overall hand dexterity after recovery. This approach also potentially reduces the risk of CMC joint complications that can arise from the immobilization in spanning fusions.

How does the choice between spanning and non-spanning techniques impact recovery and hand function?

The choice significantly affects recovery. Spanning fusion, with its extensive immobilization, may lead to a longer recovery period due to the complete restriction of wrist and CMC joint movement. While offering great stability, it compromises flexibility. Non-spanning fusion, by preserving CMC joint movement, might facilitate a quicker return to function. This approach, potentially leading to better grip strength and a more natural hand function due to maintained CMC joint motion.

What factors should be considered when deciding between spanning and non-spanning wrist fusion?

The decision between spanning and non-spanning wrist fusion should be made in close consultation with an orthopedic surgeon. Key considerations include the patient's underlying condition, such as the severity of arthritis or the nature of the injury; the patient's functional goals, including their activity level and the demands they place on their hand; and the surgeon's experience with each technique. A thorough discussion of the potential benefits and risks of each approach, taking into account individual needs, is essential to determine the most suitable option for effective pain relief and improved hand function.