[A new surgical technique for carpal instability with scapho-lunar dislocation. (Eleven cases)]

Abstract

A new operation for correcting carpal instability with scapholunate dissociation is presented. Rupture of the volar scaphoid-trapezium-trapezoid ligament (i.e. the fibrous sheath of the F.C.R.) is recognized to play a prominent role in the etiology of this instability. The scar formed in between the scaphoid and lunate bones is removed as well as that formed between scaphoid, trapezium and trapezoid. A slip of F.C.R. is passed throughout a tunnel pierced in the distal pole of the scaphoid. The slip is then sutured to the dorsolunar ridge of the distal radius with correction of both the dissociation and the scaphoid flexion. The operation is easy and quick. Eleven cases are presented with satisfactory results.