[Aseptic osteonecrosis of the head of the metacarpal (Mauclaire's disease)--case report and review of the literature]

Abstract

Aseptic osteonecrosis of the head of metacarpal is a rare disease with an unknown aetiology. It was first described by Mauclaire 1927. We now report on the treatment of 2 patients with Mauclaire's disease via transplantation of the calotte of the head of the 2nd metatarsal. At 26 and 30 months, respectively, after surgery both patients were free of complaints in activities of daily live and had free function of their fingers. There was no discomfort in the resection area at the 2nd metatarsal. Based on this experience, the method seems to be a recommendable option in young adults. A prerequisite is that the base of the proximal phalanx be intact.