Final answer:
Arthritis in the lunate facet is a contraindication for a proximal row carpectomy, which is a wrist surgery aimed to reduce pain while preserving wrist motion. The surgery requires the distal carpal bones to be free of arthritic changes to maintain proper joint function after the procedure.
Step-by-step explanation:
Arthritis affecting the lunate facet in particular is a contraindication to proceeding with a proximal row carpectomy. The proximal row carpectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the proximal row of carpal bones, typically performed to alleviate pain while preserving some wrist motion. This surgery is contraindicated in the presence of arthritic changes in the lunate facet because such pathology suggests that the remaining carpal bones, which would bear the brunt of the load after the proximal carpal bones are removed, are also likely affected and the procedure would not provide the desired outcome. During a proximal row carpectomy, the distal carpal row must be free of arthritic changes to maintain proper carpometacarpal joint articulation and ensure a successful procedure, which means no significant arthritic changes should be present in the articular surfaces of the distal row for adequate articulation with the metacarpal bones.