Dorsal Ligament Research Articles

Arthroscopic Dorsal Round-Block Capsulo-Ligamentoplasty for Dynamic Scapholunate Instability: An Anatomical Study and Case Series

Abstract Background Chronic dynamic scapholunate (SL) instability remains difficult to treat. Several treatment options exist. Purpose We propose an arthroscopic dorsal round-block capsulo-ligamentoplasty technique to treat dynamic scapholunate instability: a dorsal purse-string-like suture around the dorsal aspect of the proximal row, following the course of the dorsal intercarpal ligament (DICL). A Fiberwire suture travels between the radiocarpal and midcarpal space, piercing the attachments of the DICL on the triquetrum and of the scaphotrapezial ligament on the distal scaphoid. It reinforces the DICL and the dorso-capsuloscapholunate septum, also inducing a fibrotic healing. Moreover, it produces an extension lever correcting the scaphoid flexion/pronation. Compared with other capsulodesis techniques, the all-inside dorsal round-block capsulo-ligamentoplasty is theoretically likely to produce less stiffness, without additional damage to the SL complex. The wrist remains practically undamaged after surgery: no bone tunnels, bone anchors, or tendon grafts are required, thus enabling all possible secondary procedures. Data of a cadaveric study and case series illustrate the technique. Conclusion The arthroscopic dorsal round-block capsulo-ligamentoplasty can be considered to treat chronic dynamic scapholunate instability.

Weightbearing Computed Tomography Can Accurately Detect Subtle Lisfranc Injury.

Early detection of Lisfranc injury is critical for improving clinical outcomes, but diagnosing subtle injury can be difficult. Weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT) allows evaluation of such injuries in 3 dimensions (3D) under physiologic load. This study aimed to assess the utility of 1-, 2-, and 3-dimensional measurements on WBCT to diagnose subtle injury in isolated ligamentous Lisfranc injuries. Ten cadaveric specimens underwent WBCT evaluation of the Lisfranc joint complex in the intact state and subsequently with sequential sectioning of the dorsal Lisfranc ligament and interosseous Lisfranc ligament (IOL) to create subtle Lisfranc injury, and finally after transectioning of plantar Lisfranc ligament (PLL) to create the injury conditions for complete ligamentous Lisfranc injury. Measurements under static vertical tibial load of 80 kg were performed on WBCT images including (1) Lisfranc joint (medial cuneiform-base of second metatarsal) volume, (2) Lisfranc joint area, (3) C1-C2 intercuneiform area, (4) C1-M2 distance, (5) C1-C2 distance, (6) M1-M2 intermetatarsal distance, (7) first tarsometatarsal (TMT1) alignment, (8) second tarsometatarsal (TMT2) alignment, (9) TMT1 dorsal step-off distance, and (10) TMT2 dorsal step-off distance. In the subtle Lisfranc injury state, Lisfranc joint volume and area, C1-M2 distance, and M1-M2 distance measurements on WBCT significantly increased, when compared with the intact state (P values .001 to .014). Additionally, Lisfranc joint volume and area, C1-M2 distance, M1-M2 distance, TMT2 alignment, and TMT2 dorsal step-off measurements were increased in the complete Lisfranc injury state. Of all measurements, C1-M2 distance had the largest area under the curve (AUC) of 0.96 (sensitivity = 90%; specificity = 90%), followed by Lisfranc volume (AUC = 0.90; sensitivity = 80%; specificity = 80%) and Lisfranc area (AUC = 0.89; sensitivity = 80%; specificity = 100%). In a cadaveric model we found that WBCT scan can increase the diagnostic accuracy for subtle Lisfranc injury. Among the measurements, C1-M2 distance exhibited the highest level of accuracy. The 2D joint area and 3D joint volume also proved to be accurate, with 3D volume measurements of the Lisfranc joint displaying the most significant absolute difference between the intact state and increasing severity of Lisfranc injury. These findings suggest that 2D joint area and 3D joint volume may have potential as supplementary measurements to more accurately diagnose subtle Lisfranc injuries. WBCT may help surgeons detect subtle Lisfranc injuries.

Perilunate Fracture-Dislocation: Results at Mean Follow-Up of 7 Years after ORIF.

Background: Perilunate fracture-dislocations are frequently associated with a high risk of developing post-traumatic arthritis. Current studies indicate that during mid-term follow-ups, radiological signs of arthritis do not appear to correspond with functional score. The aim of this study was to assess the occurrence of posttraumatic arthritis and the wrist function after perilunate dislocations (PLD) and fracture dislocations at a mid-term follow-up of 7 years. Methods: We report the clinical and radiological outcomes of 17 wrists treated for PLD or fracture-dislocation by open reduction and internal fixation through a dorsal approach with dorsal ligament repair. Functional outcomes were evaluated using the short version of the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (QuickDASH), the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation questionnaire (PRWE) and the Mayo Wrist Score (MWS). Results of radiographs were assessed using the Herzberg Radiological Scoring Chart. Results: The MWS showed five excellent, five good, five fair and two poor results with an average score of 81%. Radiological analysis using the Herzberg classification revealed midcarpal and/or radiocarpal arthritis in 65% of cases, lunate collapse in 59% and an increase in the mean ulnar translocation ratio in 53% of the cases. Complications included one case of lunate osteonecrosis and one case of stage 3 scapholunate advanced collapse that required revision surgery. Conclusions: Although the clinical and functional outcomes are favourable at mid-term follow-up, radiological evaluation shows a progression towards osteoarthritis (OA). Further research is warranted to refine treatment strategies and investigate factors influencing the development of OA. Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic).

The Radiographic Effects of Lunotriquetral Coalition on Scapholunate Articulation

Introduction: Radiographic widening in the scapholunate (SL) joint due to lunotriquetral (LT) coalition has historically been viewed as normal due to reported false positives of SL dissociation/widening in patients with LT coalition. Minimal further investigations have been reported on these findings. Methods: Scapholunate interval, angle, third CMC joint space, and ligamentous measurements on CT, MRI, and X-ray imaging were compared for those with and without LT coalition. A multilevel one-way ANOVA was used to analyze CT SL angle versus X-ray SL angle and was compared to the control group. These comparisons were also performed for SL intervals and repeated for MRI imaging versus X-ray imaging. A t-test was completed to compare volar and dorsal ligament widths measured on MRI for the lunotriquetral and normal groups. Results: On X-ray and CT, no difference was measured in SL interval, angle, and third CMC joint space between those with and without LT coalition, but SL angle was higher in those without LT coalition on CT. On MRI, no difference was measured in SL angle, but SL interval was smaller in those without LT coalition. SL interval compared to third CMC joint space was smaller for all cohorts on MRI and CT. Conclusions: X-ray, CT, and MRI imaging of SL interval widening was not seen above normal radiographic parameters in the setting of LT coalition. Therefore, radiographic parameters of SL dissociation/widening should not change with LT coalition. The third CMC joint space was smaller compared to the SL interval and should not alone be used for radiographic diagnosis of SL dissociation.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE FOR ANATOMICAL RE-CONSTRUCTION OF THE DISTAL RADIOULNAR LIGAMENTS IN CHRONIC TRAUMATIC INJURY OF THE TRIANGULAR FIBROCARTILAGE COMPLEX

Abstract-Injury to the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) can lead to instability of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ). In this article, we have presented a treatment method for patients with chronic traumatic TFCC injury. The surgical technique described here demonstrates anatomical reconstruction of the volar and dorsal distal radioulnar ligament using an autologous palmaris longus tendon graft.In the period 2014-2023, 22 patients with chronic traumatic injury to the triangular fibrocartilage complex, leading to instability of the DRUJ, were operated on in our clinic. The main parameters studied pre- and post-operatively were: degree of pain during active movements in the wrist joint and prono-supination of the forearm,range of active movements in the same joints, stability of DRUJ and grip strength relative to the contralateral limb.All 22 patients reported pain reduction with active wrist movements and forearm prono-supination. This surgical technique with anatomically based reconstruction of the distal volar and dorsal radioulnar ligament provides restoration of stability of the distal radioulnar joint and reduction of pain in patients with chronic injury to the triangular fibrocartilage complex.

Relationship between first tarsometatarsal ligament morphology and its continuity with the fibularis longus and first tarsometatarsal joint degeneration.

This study explored the relationship between the morphological characteristics of the first tarsometatarsal ligaments and fibularis longus (FL) and the severity of articular cartilage degeneration in the first tarsometatarsal joint. Sixty legs from 30 cadavers were examined. The plantar, dorsal, and medial first tarsometatarsal ligaments were classified by fiber bundle number, and their morphological characteristics (fiber bundle length, width, thickness) were measured. The FL was categorized by its continuity with the plantar first tarsometatarsal ligament (PTML): Type A, connection with the PTML only on the first metatarsal; Type B, connection along the entire PTML; and Type C, no connection with the PTML. The severity of articular cartilage degeneration was assessed in four stages. No significant differences in cartilage degeneration among ligament types were found. Negative correlations were observed between the fiber bundle width and thickness of the PTML and the severity of cartilage degeneration. FL was classified as Type A in 68%, Type B in 27%, and Type C in 5% of feet. The fiber bundle thickness of the PTML in Type B was greater than in other types. Our findings suggest that smaller fiber bundle width and thickness in the PTML may be associated with severe cartilage degeneration. The FL had continuity with the PTML in 95% of feet and could enhance the mechanical strength of the PTML in Type B feet.

Current concepts and new trends in management of isolated triangular fibrocartilage complex injuries.

The triangular fibrocartilaginous complex is made of multiple components, of which the palmar and dorsal radioulnar ligaments play an important role in distal radioulnar joint stability. The ulnar wrist ligaments may be injured during forearm and wrist trauma. There are several aspects of triangular fibrocartilaginous complex management that are still open to debate. The aim of the present study was to review the current concepts and discuss emerging trends to better elucidate and treat this important ligament complex.Level of evidence: V.

PANORAMIC REVIEW OF DISTAL RADIUS FRACTURES

Introduction: fractures affecting the distal radius are common, their incidence increases as life expectancy increases, leading to a larger population of individuals at risk of suffering these injuries. They are usually comminuted and intra-articular fractures that are outside the traditional eponymous classification. Objective: to detail current information related to distal radius fractures epidemiology, anatomy, mechanism of injury, clinical evaluation, classification, imaging evaluation, treatment and complications. Methodology: a total of 27 articles were analyzed in this review, including review and original articles, as well as clinical cases and books, of which 19 bibliographies were used because the other articles were not relevant to this study. The sources of information were PubMed, Google Scholar and Cochrane; the terms used to search for information in Spanish, Portuguese and English were: distal radius fractures, radius anatomy, Colles fracture, Smith fracture, Barton fracture, treatment of distal radius fractures. Results: distal radius fractures account for about one sixth of all fractures treated in the emergency department, the incidence of distal radius fractures in the elderly correlates with the degree of osteopenia and increases with increasing age. The volar ligaments are stronger and provide greater stability to the radiocarpal joint compared to the dorsal ligaments. The most common mechanism is a fall on the hand in extension with the wrist in dorsiflexion. Currently, there is no consensus on the most optimal classification system for distal radius fractures. Conclusions: knowing correctly the whole picture of distal radius fractures allows to have a better performance when treating them. It is essential not to overlook in the physical examination the exploration of the ipsilateral elbow and shoulder to rule out the presence of associated injuries and to perform a complete evaluation to detect other possible injuries or life-threatening problems. Distal radius fractures can be treated conservatively or surgically depending on several factors, so classification is essential. There are multiple alternatives in surgical treatment, so the most appropriate one should be chosen for each case. The most common complications in this type of fracture are median nerve dysfunction, post-traumatic osteoarthritis, malunion or pseudoarthrosis and stiffness of the fingers, wrist and elbow. KEY WORDS: fracture, distal radius, Colles, Smith, Barton, treatment.

Neural Arch Preservation-Posterior Vertebral Column Resection: 2-Dimensional Operative Video.

This technique is a modification of the posterior vertebral column resection (PVCR) for patients with kyphoscoliosis with vertebral column resection indications (Cobb angle >100° angular and rigid with flexibility <20%-30%). The neural arch (preservation)-PVCR has the biomechanical advantage of maintaining the dural sac and the spinal cord attached within the neural arch and ligamentum flavum (dorsal meningovertebral ligaments are in tension in kyphosis), avoiding spinal cord deviation during the vertebrectomy. Preserving the neural arch did not interfere with corrective maneuvers of the anterior and middle columns and avoided the spinal translation in any anatomic plane. Standard posterior spinal midline approach and insertion of pedicle screws, a temporary rod is placed on contralateral side to maintain the stability of the spine during neural arch (preservation)-PVCR and to prevent translation of the spine. A costotransversectomy for an anterior approach is performed in the apex level and discectomies of the upper and lower levels. The anterior column reconstruction is made with a structural graft or titanium mesh cage with autograft. The correction is made with compression of the segment of the osteotomy, kyphosis correction with "in situ" rod benders, and Cantilever maneuver for final correction. A multiple rod construction is placed to increase stability. This technique has the potential benefits of decreasing operative time and blood loss, protecting the neural elements from fibrous scars and more posterior fusion for decreasing pseudoarthrosis. The patient consented to the procedure. The participants and any identifiable individuals consented to publication of his/her image.

Open Reduction and Transosseous Plasty of the Dorsal Scapholunate Ligament in a Patient with Mayfield type IV Chronic Lunate Dislocation, Case Report, Literature Review and Description of Surgical Technique

Introduction Perilunate dislocations represent 3% of carpal injuries. They begin in a radial direction, destabilizing the scapholunate interval, and as the injury continues, there is a progressive sequence of instability, altering the anatomy of the carpus, causing significant functional deterioration. The acute diagnosis goes unnoticed, evolving into its chronic form. There are few reports of treatment in its chronic phase with a limited number of patients and follow-up evaluation is often limited. Objective We present a case of late diagnosis of chronic lunate dislocation that was managed surgically and review of the existing literature for diagnosis and treatment, as well as the surgical technique for its resolution. Clinical case 66-year-old male, fall from the plane of support, hyperextension mechanism of the right wrist, 2 months of evolution causing pain, progressive increase in volume, functional limitation. Treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for four weeks without improvement. Radiographically, loss of lunate joint congruity - capitate. Magnetic resonance images of avascular necrosis of the lunate. Diagnosing chronic semilunar dislocation of the right hand. Preoperative Quick-Dash 70.4 pts. A double dorsal and volar approach is performed to release the carpal tunnel, place a transosseous cerclage, and three 1.6 mm Kirschner pins in the scapholunate interval; semilunopyramidal and scaphocapitate. Immobilization with antebrachipalmar splint, removal of Kirschner pins at 7 weeks and referral to physical rehabilitation. 20 postoperative weeks, range of motion with flexion of 35° and extension of 30°, without visible sequelae to mobilization, and with Quick-Dash 20.4. Conclusion Early diagnosis and treatment are necessary to prevent the potential risk of avascular necrosis of the lunate and scaphoid, and secondary osteoarthritis. Reconstruction of the chronic pathology of lunate dislocation and scapholunate ligament (SL) remains a major challenge. There are unresolved issues regarding when to perform reconstruction rather than repair and therefore treatment remains controversial.

An anatomic study of the morphologic characteristics of the dorsal capitolunate ligament

PurposeThere is consensus in favor of a description of the dorsal ligaments of the carpus as not including a direct ligament between the lunate and capitate. On the other hand, there is an anatomical formation which, according to the currently accepted description, corresponds to the dorsal midcarpal capsule, itself thickened by the dorsal intercarpal ligament. The question is whether the capsule at this point deserves to be called an individualizable ligament. In our operative experience of the dorsal carpus, we have encountered a stout structure adherent to the lunate and capitate. In this article, we present the anatomic evidence of this structure’s existence. MethodsSeven adult fresh frozen upper extremities were dissected. Three wrists were longitudinally sectioned in line with the middle finger metacarpal. The remaining 4 were dissected dorsally. Two representative samples of the stout structure connecting the lunate to the capitate were sent to pathology for histologic analysis and staining. ResultsIn all 3 of the longitudinally sectioned wrists, a thick band of tissue could clearly be seen, originating on the lunate, spanning the dorsal interval between the lunate and the capitate, and inserting on the capitate. With this structure intact, dorsal dislocation of the capitate was not possible, but preliminary sectioning of the structure allowed dislocation. In the 4 dorsally dissected wrists, the same connection was observed, palmar to the dorsal intercarpal ligament, in every specimen. The average dimensions of the dorsal capitolunate were: 15.25 ± 1 mm long, 8.75 ± 1 mm wide at the midpoint, and 1.75 ± 1 mm thick. The two specimens sent to pathology after sectioning showed longitudinally oriented collagen fibers. This structure also stained positive for elastin and contained intrasubstance vascular structures. ConclusionThere is a stout ligamentous structure connecting the lunate to the capitate, palmar to the dorsal intercarpal ligament. Disruption of this structure appears to be necessary for dorsal dislocation of the capitate. Clinical studies are needed to gain better understanding of the exact function and importance of this structure.

Anatomical analysis of ligaments surrounding calcaneocuboid joint; implications for role in foot stability.

The calcaneocuboid joint is located in the lateral part of the foot and acts as a major stabilizer for the foot. Injuries to this joint often occur in association with ankle or foot injuries and are frequently overlooked, subsequently causing chronic pain or osteoarthritis. However, the relationship between ligaments surrounding the joint and joint instability remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to clarify the morphology and position of the ligaments surrounding the calcaneocuboid joint, and to reveal the relationship between the ligament structure. The position and morphology of the bifurcate ligament (subdivided into calcaneonavicular and calcaneocuboid ligaments), dorsal calcaneocuboid ligament, lateral calcaneocuboid ligament, long plantar ligament, and short plantar ligament were measured (N = 11 feet in 6 Japanese cadavers). The circumference of the joint was quartered, while the ligament-uncovered area and the estimated cross-sectional area of each ligament were compared between the four sides. Furthermore, the estimated cross-sectional area of each ligament was calculated as an index for the ligament strength. The inferolateral side of the calcaneocuboid joint had the most uncovered area (54.63%) by the ligaments. In addition, the cross-sectional area of the ligaments on the lateral side was considerably smaller than that on the medial side. Our results suggest that ligament weakness on the inferolateral side may cause instability of the calcaneocuboid joint, especially after an inversion sprain injury, and may decrease the lateral longitudinal arch function, which results in chronic foot pain.

Suture-Based Distal Radioulnar Joint Stabilization: A Biomechanical Evaluation in a Cadaveric Model

Abstract Purpose Management of acute distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability is complex and controversial. Common treatment options include prolonged immobilization, stabilization with wires, and acute triangular fibrocartilage complex repair. However, none of these permits an early range of motion. The purpose of this study is to investigate the feasibility of a suture-based stabilization (SBS) technique for acute DRUJ instability to permit early active motion. Methods A biomechanical study utilizing eight cadaveric arms was performed. All specimens were tested in the intact state prior to the creation of bidirectional DRUJ instability. For the SBS group, 2-mm suture tapes with suture button fixation were utilized to recreate the respective contributions of distal oblique bundle and volar and dorsal radioulnar ligaments to DRUJ stability. All specimens were cyclically loaded with a simulated ballottement stress of 20N in forearm positions of neutral, 60 degrees of pronation and 60 degrees of supination. Range of motion and total translation were measured and then compared between the two groups. Results The average range of motion in the intact and SBS specimens was 174 and 175 degrees, respectively. There were no significant differences in displacement between the intact and SBS group in neutral and in supination. However, the SBS group had less translation than the intact group in pronation. Conclusions For acute DRUJ instability, the described SBS technique provides similar stability to the native intact DRUJ without compromising the range of motion in a cadaveric model. Future comparative studies are warranted prior to translation into the clinical arena. Clinical Relevance This is a biomechanical study investigating a treatment technique for acute DRUJ instability that would allow an early range of motion.

One-Year Outcomes of the Anatomical Front and Back Reconstruction for Scapholunate Dissociation

Anatomical front and back (ANAFAB) reconstruction addresses the critical volar and dorsal ligaments associated with scapholunate dissociation. We hypothesized that patients with symptomatic, chronic, late-stage scapholunate dissociation would demonstrate improvements in all radiographic parameters and patient-reported outcomes (PROMs) after ANAFAB reconstruction. From 2018 to 2021, 21 ANAFAB reconstructions performed by a single surgeon were followed prospectively, with 20 patients having a minimum follow-up of 12 months. In total, 17 men and four women were included, with an average age of 49 years. Three patients had modified Garcia-Elias stage 3 disease, eight stage 4, seven stage 5, and three stage 7. ANAFAB reconstruction of intrinsic and extrinsic ligament stabilizers was performed using a hybrid synthetic tape/tendon graft in a transosseous reconstruction. Pre- and postoperative radiographic parameters, grip, pinch strength, the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation, PROMIS Upper Extremity Function, and PROMIS Pain Interference outcome measures were compared. Mean follow-up was 17.9 months (range: 12-38). Radiographic parameters were improved at follow-up, including the following: scapholunate angle (mean 75.3° preoperatively to 69.2°), scapholunate gap (5.9-4.2 mm), dorsal scaphoid translation (1.2-0.2 mm), and radiolunate angle (13.5° to 1.8°). Mean Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation scores for pain and function decreased from 40.6 before surgery to 10.4. We were unable to detect a significant difference in grip or pinch strength or radioscaphoid angle with the numbers tested. There were two minor complications, and two complications required re-operations, one patient who was converted to a proximal row carpectomy for failure of fixation, and one who required tenolysis/arthrolysis for arthrofibrosis. At 17.9-month average follow-up, radiographic and patient-reported outcome parameters improved after reconstruction of the critical dorsal and volar ligament stabilizers of the proximal carpal row with the ANAFAB technique. Therapeutic study IV.

Dorsal Scapholunate Ligament Complex Reconstruction Using Suture Tape-Augmented Autologous Free Tendon Graft for Chronic Scapholunate Dissociation.

The treatment of chronic scapholunate dissociation (SLD) can be challenging due to several factors such as poor quality of ligament, malalignment of the carpus, limited surgical options, and risk of recurrent instability. Various surgical techniques have been developed, but there is ongoing debate regarding the optimal surgical technique. This study aimed to report the clinical and radiological outcomes after dorsal scapholunate (SL) ligament complex reconstruction using suture tape-augmented autologous tendon graft. The study included patients with Garcia-Elias stage 3-4 chronic SLD, SL advanced collapse (SLAC) stage 1, and a follow-up period exceeding 1 year. Pre- and postoperative SL gap, SL angle (SLA), radiolunate angle (RLA), and dorsal scaphoid translation (DST) were measured, and wrist active range of motion, Modified Mayo Wrist Score (MMWS), and visual analog scale (VAS) were evaluated. Nine patients were included in this study with a mean follow-up period of 17 months (range, 15-31 months). All patients were male, with a mean age of 49 years (range, 30-62 years). Eight patients were classified as Garcia-Elias stage 4, while one was classified as SLAC 1. The median (range) of preoperative, immediate postoperative, and final follow-up measurements for SL gap, SLA, RLA, and DST were 5.4 mm (4.5-5.9), 2.1 mm (1.8-2.5), and 2.5 mm (2.0-2.8) (p = 0.008); 76° (69°-88°), 50° (32°-56°), and 54° (50°-64°) (p = 0.008); 22° (11.5°-33°), 2.8° (0.5°-3.8°), and 3.8° (2.2°-5.6°) (p = 0.008); and 2.8 mm (2.0-3.4), 0.8 mm (0.1-1.2), and 1.0 mm (0.1-2.0) (p = 0.008), respectively. Immediately after surgery, all radiological measurements showed significant improvement, which persisted up to 15 months postoperatively. The preoperative and final follow-up measurements of active flexion, extension, radial deviation, and ulnar deviation of the wrist showed significant improvement. The median preoperative and final follow-up values of MMWS were 51.1 (range, 40-60) and 88.3 (range, 85-95) (p = 0.007), respectively, and those of VAS were 7 (range, 6-8) and 2 (range, 1-3) (p = 0.007), respectively. Dorsal SL ligament complex reconstruction using suture tape-augmented autologous free tendon graft could be regarded as a feasible and straightforward technique for addressing irreparable chronic SLD.

Extensor Carpi Ulnaris “Turn Around” Ligamentoplasty For Distal Radioulnar Joint Instability

Extensor Carpi Ulnaris “Turn Around” Ligamentoplasty For Distal Radioulnar Joint Instability

Biomechanical Comparisons of Different Reconstructive Techniques for Scapholunate Dissociation: A Cadaveric Study.

There are many techniques for the treatment of chronic scapholunate dissociation. The three-ligament tenodesis (3LT) is used most widely, but reconstruction of the dorsal ligament alone may not provide sufficient stability. The Mark-Henry technique (MHT) compensates for the insufficient stability of 3LT by additional reconstruction of the volar ligament, but the procedure is complex. The SwiveLock technique (SWT), a recently introduced method, provides stability by using autologous tendons with synthetic tapes, but lacks long-term clinical results. To perform biomechanical comparisons of different reconstructive techniques for scapholunate dissociation using a controlled laboratory cadaveric model. Eleven fresh-frozen upper-extremity cadaveric specimens were prepared. The scapholunate distance, scaphoid rotation, and lunate rotation of the specimens were measured during continuous flexion-extension and ulnar-radial deviation movements. The data were collected using a wrist simulator with a linear guide rail system (tendon load/motion-controlled system) and a motion capture system. Results were compared in five conditions: (1) intact, (2) scapholunate dissociation, (3) SWT, (4) 3LT, and (5) MHT. Paired t-test was employed to compare the biomechanical characteristics of intact wrists to those of scapholunate dissociated wrists, and to those of wrists after each of the three reconstruction methods. SWT and MHT were effective solutions for reducing the widening in scapholunate distance. According to the radioscaphoid angle, all three reconstruction techniques were effective in addressing the flexion deformity of the scaphoid. According to the radiolunate angle, only SWT was effective in addressing the extension deformity of the lunate. In terms of scapholunate angle, only the results after SWT did not differ from those of the intact wrist. The SWT technique most effectively improved distraction intensity and rotational strength for the treatment of scapholunate dissociation. Taking into account the technical complexity of 3LT and MHT, SWT may be a more efficient technique to reduce operating time and minimize complications due to multiple incisions, transosseous tunnels, and complicated shuttling.

Clinical and imaging features of a feline lumbar myelopathy resembling ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament in humans

AbstractA 9‐year‐old, male, neutered Russian blue cat was presented for a 2‐week history of pelvic limb weakness and reluctance to jump and climb stairs. Neurological examination was consistent with an L4–L6 myelopathy. Ectopic calcification of soft tissues within the vertebral canal involving the dorsal longitudinal ligament over the L5–L6 vertebrae was diagnosed based on radiography, magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography. The lesion was surgically excised, and histopathological examination demonstrated fibrous connective tissue with calcification. The patient was neurologically normal 2 months after surgery, and no relapses have occurred in a follow‐up period of 2 years. The findings in this case had not been previously reported in cats, and share some similarities with a clinical entity in humans named ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament.

Modified Brunelli Reconstruction for Scapholunate Ligament Dissociation.

The present video article describes the steps, alternatives, and outcomes of the modified Brunelli reconstruction, also known as 3-ligament tenodesis, for the treatment of irreparable scapholunate dissociations. The presently described technique is generally utilized in cases in which there is an irreparable disruption of the scapholunate ligament and widening of the scapholunate junction with no carpal arthritis. Other treatment options for irreparable scapholunate dissociation include various forms of capsulotenodesis, bone-ligament-bone reconstruction, tendon-based reconstructions, partial wrist arthrodesis, and proximal row carpectomy. The modified Brunelli reconstruction is indicated for a nonrepairable complete scapholunate ligament injury with a reducible rotatory subluxation of the scaphoid, without cartilage degeneration. The dorsal scapholunate ligament is reconstructed and the distal palmar scaphoid rotation is corrected with use of a distally based flexor carpi radialis tendon. The reconstruction is achieved by placing the flexor carpi radialis tendon through a transosseous scaphoid tunnel and weaving the tendon through the dorsal ulnar capsule or radiotriquetral ligament. The modified Brunelli technique has been shown to restore wrist motion to 70% to 80% of that of the contralateral wrist and grip strength to 65% to 75% of that of the contralateral wrist, as well as to provide good pain relief in approximately 70% to 80% of patients. With use of simple instrumentation, C-arm fluoroscopy, and proper surgical technique, this operative procedure is fairly reproducible. FCR = flexor carpi radialisK-wire = Kirschner wire.

The trapeziometacarpal screw home torque mechanism as a clinical indicator of the posterior joint ligament complex integrity: A cadaveric investigation

BackgroundTo date, no clinical test provides specific objective information on the integrity of key ligamentous support of the trapeziometacarpal (TMC) joint. PurposeTo examine the potential of the TMC joint screw home torque mechanism (SHTM) in estimating the integrity of the posterior ligament complex in older adult population. Study DesignCross-sectional laboratory-based study. MethodsTwenty cadaver hands presenting with various degrees of TMC joint degradation ranging from none to severe osteoarthritis (OA) were radiographed in multiple positions to establish their degeneration status, joint mobility, and amount of dorsal subluxation at rest and with the application of the SHTM. Comparisons and correlations between degeneration status, joint mobility, subluxation reduction and ligament status obtained from dissection were calculated. ResultsNo significant statistical correlation was demonstrated with the subluxation reduction ratio of the SHTM and the combined ligament complex value however, a moderate negative correlation was found with dorsal central ligament injury at 21 Nm (τb = −0.46, p < 0.05) and 34 Nm (τb = −0.45, p < 0.05). A statistically significant reduction of radial subluxation of the TMC joint was observed between the subluxation at rest (M = 5.2, SD = 1.9) and subluxation with SHTM of 21 Nm (M = 4.4, SD = 2.4), t (19) = 3.2, p = 0.01, 95% CI [0.3, 1.4] and subluxation with SHTM of 34 Nm (M = 4.3, SD = 2.6), t (19) = 2.6, p = 0.02, 95% CI [0.2, 1.5]. ConclusionOur results did not support the SHTM as indicator of the TMC posterior ligament complex integrity however, it demonstrated 100% stabilization effect with non-arthritic TMC population.