Scapholunate ligament reconstruction using a flexor carpi radialis tendon graft.

PURPOSE: To review the results of scapholunate ligament reconstruction using a flexor carpi radialis tendon graft.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of 22 patients with post-traumatic scapholunate instability who were treated with a modification of the Brunelli, a flexor carpi radialis tendon graft.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 61 months. The average age was 40 years. The average loss of flexion was 23° and of extension was 22° compared with the contralateral side. Grip strength averaged 67% of the nonoperated side. All patients except 2 returned to work. Degenerative changes were seen in 3 patients at the time of revision. Complications occurred in 2 patients and included avascular necrosis of the scaphoid.

CONCLUSIONS

Perfect biomechanical reconstruction might not be possible for scapholunate dissociation. Our results show, however, that ligament reconstruction led to satisfactory results from the patient's point of view.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.