What is a radial styloidectomy?

A radial styloidectomy is a surgical procedure in which the radial styloid, a bony prominence on the thumb side of the wrist, is removed. This procedure is typically performed to treat conditions that cause pain or discomfort in the wrist, such as:

- De Quervain's tenosynovitis, a condition that causes inflammation of the tendons that run along the thumb side of the wrist

- Intersection syndrome, a condition that occurs when the tendons that control thumb movement become irritated or compressed

- Chronic wrist pain or instability

During a radial styloidectomy, the surgeon makes a small incision in the skin over the radial styloid and then removes the prominence using a scalpel or other surgical instruments. The incision is then closed with stitches or surgical glue.

The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning that the patient can go home the same day. Recovery time from a radial styloidectomy is usually quick, with most patients able to return to their normal activities within a few weeks.