[Frequency of acute and chronic scapholunate dissociation in distal radius fractures. Different treatment plans].

BACKGROUND

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of acute scapholunate dissociation (SLD) is crucial for obtaining a favorable result in fractures of the distal radius. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of acute SLD in a prospective study and to differentiate this entity from chronic SLD.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

A total of 120 patients with unilateral distal radius fractures were prospectively evaluated for SLD. Stress radiographs were obtained for all patients on the injured side after fixation of the distal radius fractures. In cases of SLD the unaffected side was examined to rule out chronic, bilateral SLD.

RESULTS

Acute SLD was detected in 13 patients (11%), 11 (9.1%) of whom had stage 3 injury. Chronic SLD with bilateral asymptomatic instability was seen in three patients (2.5%).

CONCLUSION

When treating fractures of the distal radius, acute SLD has to be ruled out and to be discriminated from chronic SLD. While acute SLD requires appropriate treatment, immediate treatment of chronic SLD is not indicated.