The role of arthroscopy in the diagnosis and management of cartilaginous lesions of the wrist.

Cartilaginous lesions in the wrist may be fairly common. Diagnosis of these lesions remains difficult, and the determination of when to operate is not always clear. Careful attention to the history and physical examination can make this diagnosis easier, and appropriate surgical intervention can be useful in alleviating symptoms and returning the patients to normal activities. Although short-term results are promising, long-term studies are needed before the efficacy of arthroscopic management of chondral lesions of the wrist is known.