Extensor carpi radialis brevis ligamentoplasty and dorsal capsulodesis for the treatment of chronic post-traumatic scapholunate instability.

OBJECTIVES

To present a novel surgical technique that includes both extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) ligamentoplasty and dorsal capsulodesis for the treatment of chronic post-traumatic scapholunate instability.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of 32 patients with chronic post-traumatic scapholunate instability (stage 4 or 5 according the Garcia-Elias' classification) who were treated with this technique. Pre- or intraoperative arthroscopic evaluation was carried out in all cases.

RESULTS

The postoperative wrist range of motion was generally improved except for wrist flexion. In 20 patients out of 29, the DISI deformity was corrected. Grip strength and pain was also improved postoperatively. Based on the Mayo wrist scoring, 16 patients had excellent results, eight patients had good results, three patients had fair results, and five patients had poor results.

CONCLUSION

Our technique which combines ECRB ligamentoplasty with dorsal capsulodesis is a reliable option for the surgical treatment of chronic postchronic post-traumatic scapholunate instability.