Abstract
Background The Universal 2 is a widely used total wrist implant that aims to maintain function
of the wrist.
Purpose Promising mid-term results of the Universal 2 total wrist implant are described in
the literature. This study evaluates the long-term results in terms of implant survival
and patient satisfaction.
Patients and Methods Patients who received a Universal 2 implant between 2004 and 2009 were retrospectively
identified through a database search. Clinical outcome and complications of the implant
were assessed by examination of the patient's medical records, X-rays, and a questionnaire,
consisting of the Patient-Rated Wrist and Hand Evaluation questionnaire (PRWHE) and
Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) questionnaires and additional
questions.
Results Twenty-five patients (26 wrists) were included in this study. Twenty-one (81%) Universal
2 implants remained in situ after a mean follow-up of 11 years. Moderate PRWHE (44)
and QuickDASH (41) scores were found in these cases. Five Universal 2 implants failed
and were converted to a total wrist arthrodesis after a mean period of 9.2 years due
to distal component loosening (n = 3), recurrent luxation (n = 1), or recurrent synovitis (n = 1). Twenty-three (92%) patients were (very) satisfied with the Universal 2 implant.
Conclusion The Universal 2 demonstrates a high (81%) implant survival with a high patient satisfaction
after a mean follow-up of 11 years. Prospective studies of the Universal 2 implant
are necessary to objectify improvement in wrist function and to provide a better comparison
to other fourth generation wrist implants.
Keywords
total wrist arthroplasty - wrist implant - Universal 2 - long-term results
