A kinematic analysis of the movement of the scaphoid, the lunatum and the triquetrum has shown that their turning axes do not correspond with each other. Without arthritis, and within the range of normal motion, the bones move without imposing any appreciable load on the ligaments. They merely guide the bones and hold them together. In the case of arthritic disorders and in states where abnormal frictional resistance occurs, or following trauma, the ligaments are highly loaded. This could lead to increased wear and ruptured ligaments. A series of 20 arthroscopies has shown that LT and SC ligaments are very prone to this, and are often affected simultaneously. Therefore, there may be certain predisposed sites or "weak points", which should definitely not be further aggravated by inappropriate therapeutic measures. The clinician can classify the carpal dysfunction into five main groups; however, the therapy options cannot be classified in the same way. On the basis of clinical experience and the kinematic study, the following statements can be made: scapho-lunatum (SC) arthrodesis can be considered kinematically unsuitable, while scapho-capitatum (SC) and lunato-capitatum (LC) arthrodeses are both clinically and kinematically acceptable. LC arthrodesis has given good results in cases with advanced carpal collapse. From a mechanical point of view, SC arthrodesis is probably better than scapho-trapezo-trapezoid arthrodesis. In the case of ulnar translocation, radio-ulna-to-scaphoid arthrodesis could be an acceptable alternative to total fusion. Proximal row carpectomy can only be a temporary solution, as can prostheses. Partial prostheses, whether of Silastic or titanium, are also not suitable for permanent use.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)