What is new in flexor tendon pulleys and the gaps between them in triphalangeal fingers of the hand?

The flexor tendon pulleys in the fingers of the hand are fibrous structures of variable size, shape, and thickness that cover the synovial sheath of these tendons. Despite their clinical relevance, their arrangement and configuration in each of the triphalangeal fingers have been little studied and with small sample sizes. 192 triphalangeal fingers belonging to 48 fresh body donors' hands were dissected. Multivariate analysis was carried out. Twenty-five cases (52%) were left hands, and 26 of the 48 hands belonged to female donors (54.2%). The results were analyzed by fingers for each of the 5 annular pulleys, the 3 cruciform pulleys and the gaps between them. In addition, the most and least frequent configurations of the pulleys in each of the fingers were studied, observing that the classic pattern with all the pulleys appeared only in 3 fingers (1.56%), while the most frequent pattern was A1-A2-C1-A3-A4, which was seen in 35 fingers (18.22%). CONCLUSIONS: The flexor pulleys in the triphalangeal fingers of the hand have shown enormous variability in arrangement and shape, and also rarely appear all in the same finger. This peculiar anatomical arrangement can help the different professionals who perform their clinical work in this region.

Intra-articular Pressure in the Distal Radioulnar Joint: A Biomechanical Study.

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to use cadaveric models to assess the effect of loading the forearm muscles in different forearm rotations, with or without disruption to the stabilizing components, on the intra-articular pressure of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ). METHODS: Ten forearms with no severe osteoarthritis or injury to the DRUJ stabilizers were used. They were placed in a vertical support, and pressure sensors measured pressure within the DRUJ in 5 forearm rotations (neutral, pronation, supination, extension, and flexion) under the following 6 conditions: 1) no loading; 2) loading (at 1/5 of the load per cross-sectional area) with no disruption; 3) loading with disruption of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC); 4) loading with disruption of the TFCC and ulnar ligaments (ULs); 5) loading with disruption of the TFCC, ULs and interosseous membrane (IM); and 6) loading with disruption of the TFCC, ULs, IM, and pronator quadratus (PQ). RESULTS: Under the no disruption-no load, no disruption-loaded, and disrupted TFCC conditions, the highest intra-articular pressures were recorded in supination. Compared with the no-load condition, pressure was greater in the no disruption-loaded condition with a mean difference (MD) of 1.57 kg/cm2 in a neutral position. In flexion, pressure was greater with a disrupted TFCC (MD, 4.3 kg/cm2). In supination, pressure was only greater with a disrupted TFCC (MD, 3.3 kg/cm2), and pressure decreased in the other disruption conditions. The pressures recorded did not differ from the no disruption-no load condition in pronation or extension. CONCLUSIONS: Pressures within the DRUJ changed with forearm rotations. In the no disruption-no load, no disruption-loaded, and disrupted TFCC conditions, intra-articular pressure was highest in supination. In flexion and supination with load and disruption of stabilizers, intra-articular pressure only increased significantly in the disrupted TFCC condition compared with no load. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Based on our findings, exercises in supination should be avoided during the first phase of rehabilitation of TFCC injuries given the increased pressure on the DRUJ.

Scapholunate and lunotriquetral joint dynamic stabilizers and their role in wrist neuromuscular control and proprioception.

BACKGROUND: Recent research interest has grown in exploring the role of muscles, isometric contraction, proprioception, and neuromuscular control in addressing dynamic scapholunate and lunotriquetral joint instability, marking a shift in the understanding of wrist stability. PURPOSE: To present a comprehensive review of the carpal ligaments anatomy and wrist biomechanics, with a particular focus on the role of proprioception in dynamic carpal stability and their role in managing scapholunate (SL) and lunotriquetral (LTq) dynamic instabilities. STUDY DESIGN: We conducted a systematic search of the literature and review of the most relevant papers published and indexed in pubmed, related to wrist biomechanics, proprioception and its contribution to carpal dynamic stability. METHODS: The study involved a comprehensive review of neuromuscular mechanisms in dynamic stabilization of the carpus, based on cadaver studies. The 3D position of the scaphoid, triquetrum, and capitate was monitored before and after tendon loading. RESULTS: The extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) and the flexor carpi radialis (FCR) are identified as the primary pronators of the midcarpal joint. The ECU's pronation effect can potentially strain the scapholunate ligament, while the supinator muscles, the abductor pollicis longus (APL), the extensor carpi radialis longus (ECRL), and the flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU), have a protective role, particularly in cases of scapholunate ligament dysfunctions. The FCR, despite being a pronator of the distal row, has a beneficial effect as it provokes supination of the scaphoid. CONCLUSIONS: Comprehending carpal dysfunctions and instabilities hinges on understanding carpal anatomy and normal biomechanics. Proprioception, encompassing joint position sensation and neuromuscular control, is pivotal for stability. Biomechanical research informs tailored muscle strengthening for specific carpal issues. Supinator muscles should be strengthened for SL injuries, and ECU-focused strengthening and proprioceptive training are key for dynamic LTq instabilities. Ongoing research should delve into the intricate relationship between carpal ligaments, muscles, and proprioception to enhance wrist stability.

Influence of forearm rotation on the kinetic stabilizing efficiency of the muscles that control the scapholunate joint. Clinical application in proprioceptive and neuromuscular rehabilitation programs.

BACKGROUND: This study focuses on the relationship between forearm muscles, carpal ligaments, and their impact on scapholunate joint stability across varying forearm rotations. This is crucial for optimizing pre and postoperative rehabilitation strategies for scapholunate joint dysfunction. PURPOSE: Our study aims to understand the kinetic influence of forearm muscles on scapholunate joint instability. We emphasize the significance of forearm rotation to enhance treatment efficacy. STUDY DESIGN: We conducted an experimental study to understand how forearm muscles contribute to the stability of the scapholunate joint during different degrees of forearm rotation and we focused on the joint effect of muscle groups rather than individual muscles for treatment protocols. RESULTS: Our findings shed light on the conservative treatment of dynamic scapholunate instability and the postoperative rehabilitation of scapholunate ligament repair. We found that the effect of forearm muscles significantly contributes to preserve stability in the scapholunate joint across various forearm rotational positions. These insights have practical implications for hand therapists, offering innovative strategies to enhance clinical practice. CONCLUSIONS: This research underscores the importance of considering forearm rotation when developing rehabilitation protocols for scapholunate joint instability and provides a valuable perspective in line with current rehabilitation principles.

Interdisciplinary consensus statements on imaging of DRUJ instability and TFCC injuries.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this agreement was to establish evidence-based consensus statements on imaging of distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability and triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injuries by an expert group using the Delphi technique. METHODS: Nineteen hand surgeons developed a preliminary list of questions on DRUJ instability and TFCC injuries. Radiologists created statements based on the literature and the authors' clinical experience. Questions and statements were revised during three iterative Delphi rounds. Delphi panelists consisted of twenty-seven musculoskeletal radiologists. The panelists scored their degree of agreement to each statement on an 11-item numeric scale. Scores of "0," "5," and "10" reflected complete disagreement, indeterminate agreement, and complete agreement, respectively. Group consensus was defined as a score of "8" or higher for 80% or more of the panelists. RESULTS: Three of fourteen statements achieved group consensus in the first Delphi round and ten statements achieved group consensus in the second Delphi round. The third and final Delphi round was limited to the one question that did not achieve group consensus in the previous rounds. CONCLUSIONS: Delphi-based agreements suggest that CT with static axial slices in neutral rotation, pronation, and supination is the most useful and accurate imaging technique for the work-up of DRUJ instability. MRI is the most valuable technique in the diagnosis of TFCC lesions. The main indication for MR arthrography and CT arthrography are Palmer 1B foveal lesions of the TFCC. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: MRI is the method of choice for assessing TFCC lesions, with higher accuracy for central than peripheral abnormalities. The main indication for MR arthrography is the evaluation of TFCC foveal insertion lesions and peripheral non-Palmer injuries. KEY POINTS: • Conventional radiography should be the initial imaging technique in the assessment of DRUJ instability. CT with static axial slices in neutral rotation, pronation, and supination is the most accurate method for evaluating DRUJ instability. • MRI is the most useful technique in diagnosing soft-tissue injuries causing DRUJ instability, especially TFCC lesions. • The main indications for MR arthrography and CT arthrography are foveal lesions of the TFCC.

Immunofluorescence analysis of sensory nerve endings in the periarticular tissue of the human elbow joint.

INTRODUCTION: To investigate the dynamic aspects of elbow stability, we aimed to analyze sensory nerve endings in the ligaments and the capsule of elbow joints. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The capsule with its anterior (AJC) and posterior (PJC) parts, the radial collateral ligament (RCL), the annular ligament (AL), and the ulnar collateral ligament with its posterior (PUCL), transverse (TUCL) and anterior parts (AUCL) were dissected from eleven human cadaver elbow joints. Sensory nerve endings were analyzed in two levels per specimen as total cell amount/ cm2 after immunofluorescence staining with low-affinity neurotrophin receptor p75, protein gene product 9.5, S-100 protein and 4',6-Diamidin-2-phenylindol, Carbonic anhydrase II and choline acetyltransferase on an Apotome microscope according to Freeman and Wyke's classification. RESULTS: Free nerve endings were the predominant mechanoreceptor in all seven structures followed by Ruffini, unclassifiable, Golgi-like, and Pacini corpuscles (p ≤ 0.00001, respectively). Free nerve endings were observed significant more often in the AJC than in the RCL (p < 0.00002). A higher density of Ruffini endings than Golgi-like endings was observed in the PJC (p = 0.004). The RCL contained significant more Ruffini endings than Pacini corpuscles (p = 0.004). Carbonic anhydrase II was significantly more frequently positively immunoreactive than choline acetyltransferase in all sensory nerve endings (p < 0.05). Sensory nerve endings were significant more often epifascicular distributed in all structures (p < 0.006, respectively) except for the AJC, which had a pronounced equal distribution (p < 0.00005). CONCLUSION: The high density of free nerve endings in the joint capsule indicates that it has pronounced nociceptive functions. Joint position sense is mainly detected by the RCL, AUCL, PUCL, and the PJC. Proprioceptive control of the elbow joint is mainly monitored by the joint capsule and the UCL, respectively. However, the extreme range of motion is primarily controlled by the RCL mediated by Golgi-like endings.

Bilateral Ulnar Deviation Supination Stress Test to Assess Dynamic Scapholunate Instability.

PURPOSE: We describe a new radiologic test to assess the integrity of the scapholunate ligament in dynamic scapholunate dysfunction. METHODS: A bilateral forearm-holding device was designed to perform a comparative radiographic assessment of the scapholunate joint gap during resisted isometric contraction of the extensor carpi ulnaris muscle with full supination of the forearm. The concept is based on the known scaphoid pronation effect of this muscle. Clinical data from 12 patients were collected retrospectively and used to analyze the patients' symptomatic and asymptomatic (contralateral) wrists with a newly developed test called the Bilateral Ulnar Deviation Supination (BUDS) test. A wrist arthroscopy was performed in all cases as a reference standard for the radiologic test. RESULTS: The test was positive in 7 patients, with a mean scapholunate joint gap of 4.8 mm. The mean differences in the scapholunate joint gaps between both wrists were 2.6 mm in BUDS-positive patients and 0.2 mm in BUDS-negative patients. A Geissler stage III or IV scapholunate ligament rupture was confirmed in all BUDS-positive patients; by contrast, BUDS-negative patients exhibited either no lesion or a Geissler stage I injury. CONCLUSIONS: The BUDS test is a new radiologic test based on proven biomechanical effects that is able to accurately assess dynamic scapholunate dysfunctions. The analysis carried out found a correlation between radiographic and arthroscopic findings. Further research is needed to confirm the validity and reliability of the test. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic III.

Ligaments and muscles stabilizing the radio-ulno-carpal joint.

The technical simplicity of the Darrach procedure may explain why it has been so popular. Excising the distal ulna, however, may have potentially undesired consequences to the biomechanics in two areas: the distal radioulnar and the ulno-carpal joints. These conjointly define the radio-ulno-carpal joint (RUCJ). The RUCJ is not a small and irrelevant articulation that can be removed without possibly paying a functional penalty. It is an important link of the antebrachial frame that provides stability to the distal forearm and the carpus. This article revisits the mechanisms by which some ligaments and muscles ensure that all forces about and within the RUCJ are dealt with efficiently.

Interdisciplinary consensus statements on imaging of scapholunate joint instability.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this agreement was to establish evidence-based consensus statements on imaging of scapholunate joint (SLJ) instability by an expert group using the Delphi technique. METHODS: Nineteen hand surgeons developed a preliminary list of questions on SLJ instability. Radiologists created statements based on the literature and the authors' clinical experience. Questions and statements were revised during three iterative Delphi rounds. Delphi panellists consisted of twenty-seven musculoskeletal radiologists. The panellists scored their degree of agreement to each statement on an eleven-item numeric scale. Scores of '0', '5' and '10' reflected complete disagreement, indeterminate agreement and complete agreement, respectively. Group consensus was defined as a score of '8' or higher for 80% or more of the panellists. RESULTS: Ten of fifteen statements achieved group consensus in the second Delphi round. The remaining five statements achieved group consensus in the third Delphi round. It was agreed that dorsopalmar and lateral radiographs should be acquired as routine imaging work-up in patients with suspected SLJ instability. Radiographic stress views and dynamic fluoroscopy allow accurate diagnosis of dynamic SLJ instability. MR arthrography and CT arthrography are accurate for detecting scapholunate interosseous ligament tears and articular cartilage defects. Ultrasonography and MRI can delineate most extrinsic carpal ligaments, although validated scientific evidence on accurate differentiation between partially or completely torn or incompetent ligaments is not available. CONCLUSIONS: Delphi-based agreements suggest that standardized radiographs, radiographic stress views, dynamic fluoroscopy, MR arthrography and CT arthrography are the most useful and accurate imaging techniques for the work-up of SLJ instability. KEY POINTS: • Dorsopalmar and lateral wrist radiographs remain the basic imaging modality for routine imaging work-up in patients with suspected scapholunate joint instability. • Radiographic stress views and dynamic fluoroscopy of the wrist allow accurate diagnosis of dynamic scapholunate joint instability. • Wrist MR arthrography and CT arthrography are accurate for determination of scapholunate interosseous ligament tears and cartilage defects.

Degeneration of the articular disc in the human triangular fibrocartilage complex.

INTRODUCTION: Traumatic injuries of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) are frequent reasons for ulnar wrist pain. The assessment of the extent of articular disc (AD) degeneration is important for the differentiation of acute injuries versus chronic lesions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The AD of the TFCC of eleven human cadaver wrists was dissected. Degeneration was analyzed according to the grading of Krenn et al. Hematoxylin-eosin was used to determine the tissue morphology. Degeneration was evaluated using the staining intensity of alcian blue, the immunohistochemistry of the proteoglycan versican and the immunoreactivity of NITEGE, an aggrecan fragment. RESULTS: The staining homogeneity of HE decreased with higher degeneration of the AD and basophilic tissue areas were more frequently seen. Two specimens were characterized as degeneration grade 1, five specimens as grade 2, and four specimens as grade 3, respectively. Staining intensity of alcian blue increased with higher degeneration grade of the specimens. Immunoreactivity for NITEGE was detected around tissue fissures and perforations as well as matrix splits. Immunoreactivity for versican was found concentrated in the tissue around matrix fissures and lesions as well as loose connective tissue at the ulnar border of the AD. Specimens with degeneration grade 2 had the strongest immunoreactivity of NITEGE and versican. Cell clusters were observed in specimens with degeneration grade 2 and 3, which were stained by alcian blue and immunoreactive for NITEGE and versican. Increasing age of the cadaver wrists correlated with a higher degree of degeneration (p < 0.0001, r = 0.68). CONCLUSIONS: The fibrocartilage of degenerated ADs contains NITEGE and versican. The amount of the immunoreactivity of these markers allows the differentiation of degenerative changes into three grades. The degeneration of the AD increases with age and emphasizes its important mechanical function.

Kinetic dysfunction of the wrist with chronic scapholunate dissociation. A cadaver study.

BACKGROUND: Most laboratory studies investigating scapholunate dissociations are based on normal cadaver arms with serially sectioned ligaments. It is assumed that the kinetic behavior of a ligament-sectioned wrist is similar to a scapholunate dissociation. We tested five cadaver wrists with real injuries. The goal of this research was to evaluate the biomechanical behavior of scapholunate advanced collapse wrists compared to an experimental group with simulated injuries. METHODS: Using a magnetic 6-degree of freedom motion tracking device, changes in scaphoid alignment induced by isometric loading 5 wrist motor tendons in two groups of specimens were monitored. Twelve fresh cadaver wrists in which scapholunate injury was simulated by sectioning the scapholunate ligament were compared to 5 arms with chronic scapholunate dissociation. FINDINGS: The behavior of the scaphoid is the same in both groups, but the magnitude of displacement is greater in chronic scapholunate dissociation wrists, although not statistically significant. The extensor carpi ulnaris is the only muscle that provokes scaphoid pronation; all other muscles induce its supination. INTERPRETATION: Different factors may play a role in the amount of scaphoid rotation observed in wrists with chronic scapholunate dissociation. Ligament sectioning alone in the experimental setup can only partially replicate the behavior of real scapholunate dissociations. The extensor carpi ulnaris has a major role in destabilizing scapholunate advanced collapse wrists; therefore, isometric contraction of this muscle should be avoided in the conservative treatment. The experimental setup designed is useful to evaluate the biomechanical behavior of the carpus under traction load.

Immunofluorescence analysis of sensory nerve endings in the interosseous membrane of the forearm.

The human interosseous membrane (IOM) is a fundamental stabilizer during forearm rotation. To investigate the dynamic aspects of forearm stability, we analyzed sensory nerve endings in the IOM. The distal oblique bundle (DOB), the distal accessory band (DAB), the central band (CB), the proximal accessory band (PAB), the dorsal oblique accessory cord (DOAC) and the proximal oblique cord (POC) were dissected from 11 human cadaver forearms. Sensory nerve endings were analyzed at two levels per specimen as total cell amount/mm2 after immunofluorescence staining with low-affinity neurotrophin receptor p75, protein gene product 9.5, S-100 protein and 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole on an Apotome microscope, according to Freeman and Wyke's classification. Sensory nerve endings were significantly more commonly found to be equally distributed throughout the structures, rather than being epifascicular, interstitial, or close to the insertion into bone (P ≤ 0.001, respectively). Free nerve endings were the predominant mechanoreceptor in all six structures, with highest density in the DOB, followed by the POC (P ≤ 0.0001, respectively). The DOB had the highest density of Pacini corpuscles. The DOAC and CB had the lowest amounts of sensory innervation. The high density of sensory corpuscles in the DOB, PAB and POC indicate that proprioceptive control of the compressive and directional muscular forces acting on the distal and proximal radioulnar joints is monitored by the DOB, PAB and POC, respectively, due to their closed proximity to both joints, whereas the central parts of the IOM act as structures of passive restraint.

Anteromedial Release for Posttraumatic Flexion-pronation Contracture of the Wrist: Surgical Technique.

Wrist stiffness can be a complication of trauma. A small percentage of patients fail to improve with nonoperative management and require operative intervention to regain range of motion and function. These group of patients can present with a soft tissue flexion-pronation contracture, which is hypothesized to be caused by capsular contraction of the distal radioulna joint, musculotendinous contracture of the flexor carpi ulnaris, contracture of the volar ulnar carpal ligaments and of the pronator quadratus muscle. This complication significantly restricts functional dart-thrower's range of motion and is highly disabling. A surgical option to manage this condition is release of pathologic structures with an anteromedial approach to the wrist. We describe a safe, effective, and reproducible technique to treat these patients.

The Twist X-Ray: A Novel Test for Dynamic Scapholunate Instability.

Background Scapholunate instability (SLI) is the most common form of carpal instability. Early detection of SLI is imperative as early reconstructive procedures can potentially prevent the natural history of progressive degenerative arthritis. After wrist arthroscopy, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) remains the next best noninvasive diagnostic option; however, access still remains costly and is often limited in many health care systems worldwide. In this article, we describe a novel device that allows for dynamic X-rays to be taken, accentuating the scapholunate (SL) widening. Description of Technique Twist X-ray views are generated by the patient clenching a device that combines the standard clenched fist views with ulnar deviation and supination. The test is easy to perform and functions by combining a higher grip force with the ulnar deviation and pronation effects of the extensor carpi ulnaris tendon, thus accentuating the SL gap in dynamic instability. Patients and Methods We present a series of four patients with dynamic SLI and compare the findings of the Twist X-rays with conventional wrist X-rays series, including standard anteroposterior, lateral, radial, and ulna deviation, clenched fist, and pencil grip views. Results In all the four patients, there was substantial dynamic SL widening. The SL interval increased from a mean of 1.8 mm (range: 1.5-2.8) on posteroanterior X-rays to 6.3 mm (range: 4.6-8.2) with the Twist views. Interestingly, on the pencil grip view, the mean widening was only 1.5 mm (range: 1-2.8 mm). Conclusion The authors describe a novel device that allows for improved detection of dynamic SL ligament instability when performing stress X-ray views of the wrist. Level of Evidence This is a Level IV study.

Length Changes in Scapholunate Interosseous Ligament With Resisted Wrist Radial and Ulnar Inclination.

PURPOSE: To investigate the changes in length of the scapholunate interosseous ligament (SLIL) when the wrist is resisting horizontal lateral load and the forearm is in full pronation in vivo. METHODS: We obtained computed tomography scans of the wrists of 6 volunteers in 3 situations: 0° position (0° extension and 0° ulnar inclination) and full forearm pronation without force, and in the same position but with resisted ulnar and radial deviation. Nine zones of 3 subregions of the SLIL were measured and analyzed with computer modeling. RESULTS: Changes in length of the palmar SLIL with resisted ulnar deviation were significantly greater than those without an applied lateral load. In contrast, the changes in length of the dorsal SLIL with resisted radial deviation were statistically greater than those in the 0° position without loading. However, no significant differences in the changes in length of the proximal SLIL were found in any of 3 situations, except the dorsal zone with resisted radial deviation. CONCLUSIONS: Application of lateral load has an effect on the separation of the palmar and dorsal insertions of the SLIL. The palmar subregion of the SLIL was more highly strained with wrist-resisted ulnar deviation. Conversely, the dorsal subregion of the SLIL was under greater tension with wrist-resisted radial deviation. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: For patients undergoing nonsurgical treatment of SLIL tears, a sudden contraction of ulnar or radial deviation agonist muscles may be harmful and contribute to SL instability.

Biomechanical Analysis of Palmar Midcarpal Instability and Treatment by Partial Wrist Arthrodesis.

PURPOSE: To create a biomechanical model of palmar midcarpal instability by selective ligament sectioning and to analyze treatment by simulated partial wrist arthrodesis. METHODS: Nine fresh-frozen cadaver arms were moved through 3 servohydraulic actuated motions and 2 passive wrist mobilizations. The dorsal radiocarpal, triquetrohamate, scaphocapitate, and scaphotrapeziotrapezoid ligaments were sectioned to replicate palmar midcarpal instability. Kinematic data for the scaphoid, lunate, and triquetrum were recorded before and after ligament sectioning and again after simulated triquetrohamate arthrodesis (TqHA) and radiolunate arthrodesis (RLA). RESULTS: Following ligament sectioning, the model we created for palmar midcarpal instability was characterized by significant increases in (1) lunate angular velocity, (2) lunate flexion-extension, and (3) dorsal/volar motion of the capitate during dorsal/volar mobilizations. Simulated TqHA caused significantly more scaphoid flexion and less extension during the wrist radioulnar deviation motion. It also increased the amount of lunate and triquetral extension during wrist flexion-extension. Simulated RLA significantly reduced scaphoid flexion during both wrist radioulnar deviation and flexion-extension. CONCLUSIONS: Both simulated arthrodeses eliminate wrist clunking and may be of value in treating palmar midcarpal instability. However, simulated RLA reduces proximal row motion whereas simulated TqHA alters how the proximal row moves. Long-term clinical studies are needed to determine if these changes are detrimental. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Palmar midcarpal instability is poorly understood, with most treatments based on pathomechanical assumptions. This study provides information that clinicians can use to design better treatment strategies for this unsolved condition.

Resurfacing Capitate Pyrocarbon Implant versus Proximal Row Carpectomy Alone: A Comparative Study to Evaluate the Role of Capitate Prosthetic Resurfacing in Advanced Carpal Collapse.

BACKGROUND: The Resurfacing Capitate Pyrocarbon Implant associated with proximal row carpectomy has been used to treat symptomatic advanced carpal collapse, widening the indications of proximal row carpectomy to patients with capitate head arthritis. The authors retrospectively compared their case series of implant versus carpectomy alone, analyzing whether prosthetic implant outcomes could be similar to those of proximal row carpectomy even with a higher stage of osteoarthritis. METHODS: Fifty-seven patients who underwent surgery for wrist osteoarthritis (minimum follow-up, 2 years) were selected retrospectively. Twenty-five patients (scapholunate advanced collapse/scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse stage III to IV and Kienböck disease stage IV) underwent proximal row carpectomy plus Resurfacing Capitate Pyrocarbon Implant (group A); 32 patients (scapholunate advanced collapse/scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse stage I to II and Kienböck disease stage III) underwent carpectomy alone (group B). Mean follow-up was 33 months. Patients were evaluated clinically and radiographically. Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire scores were assessed. RESULTS: Group A showed consistent pain relief (visual analogue scale score of 2), while preserving wrist mobility (flexion, 27 degrees; extension, 33 degrees) and grip strength (54 percent compared with the contralateral side). Average Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire score was 20, and average Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation score was 28. No statistically significant difference was observed between groups for all outcomes, except for better extension (p < 0.05) in group B. CONCLUSIONS: Even starting from a higher grade of osteoarthritis, Resurfacing Capitate Pyrocarbon Implant plus proximal row carpectomy showed satisfying results, compared with those obtained with just carpectomy. Data show that indications for proximal row carpectomy can be widened by using the implant, without worsening outcomes. The implant could be a useful alternative to more aggressive salvage procedures in case of capitate head and lunate fossa osteoarthritis involvement. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, III.

Carpal Realignment Using a Strip of Extensor Carpi Radialis Longus Tendon.

Scapholunate instability can lead to posttraumatic dysfunction of the wrist. If unrecognized, it commonly leads to degenerative osteoarthritis. Numerous reparative techniques have been proposed with mixed long-term success. We present a technique that uses a distally based strip of the extensor carpi radialis longus to better maintain reduction of the scaphoid and reconstruct the volar and dorsal scapholunate ligament and the scaphotrapezium-trapezoid ligament. To illustrate the technique, we describe a clinical case with 17 months of follow-up.

Carpal Ligaments: A Functional Classification.

Recent laboratory research has disclosed that carpal ligaments exhibit different kinetic behaviors depending on the direction and point of application of the forces being applied to the wrist. The so-called helical antipronation ligaments are mostly active when the wrist is axially loaded, whereas the helical antisupination ligaments constrain supination torques to the distal row. This novel way of interpreting the function of the carpal ligaments may help in developing better strategies to treat carpal instabilities.