Treatment of Post-traumatic Scapho-lunate Dissociation

Rhee, Seung Koo; Lee, Nam Ki; Kim, Ki Won; Song, Hyun Suk

Abstract

We have analyzed 27 cases(38.8%) of scapho-lunate(SL) dissociation which were the most com- mon type of total 72 cases of post-traumatic wrist instabilities since 1985. As a result, SL dissociations associated with wrist fracture were 23 cases, more common than simple dynamic SL dissociation(4 cases). Early diagnosis and treatment influenced on their prognosis, and both wrist PA roentgenograms were useful for the confirmative diagnosis of SL dissociation. In 16 cases with early diagnosis, closed reduction, 2 or 3 K-wires fixation under C-arm image and short arm cast for 8 weeks were effective. But in 11 cases with neglected diagnosis and with wrist fractures showed poor results. Excessive wrist ligamentous reconstruction in chronic cases should be avoided because of osteoporosis and wrist stiffness. Conclusively, clinical wrist symptoms are more important than radiological changes in wrist insta- bilites. So if the symptoms are not so severe, we must consider the patient's age, occupation and their social activities etc. to decide the proper way of treatment.