Management of Scapholunate Ligament Tears Associated with Fractures of the Distal Radius

Abstract

Soft tissue injuries in fractures of the distal radius demonstrate a greater incidence than previously appreciated. To diagnose a scapholunate interosseous ligament injury accurately a thorough understanding of the pertinent normal anatomy and kinematics, patterns of injury, and the relative utility of the various imaging methods is required. The advent of new treatment techniques, as well as current research into the reconstruction of this complex soft tissue lesion, makes defining the optimal treatment a constantly developing process. Challenges for the future involve improving non-invasive evaluation, defining the degree of extrinsic ligament injury and improving direct repair and reconstruction. The key to preventing secondary carpal problems is anatomic realignment of the radius articular surface but also early diagnosis of ligamentous lesions and adequate treatment.

Ligamentous - Injury - Dissociation - Carpal - Instability - Radius - Fracture

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