PERILUNATE WRIST INJURIES – A FOLLOW UP STUDY AFTER 18 MONTHS

Abstract

Introduction: The literature gives ample evidence to discourage sub-optimal reductions of perilunate fracture/dislocations. These, inevitably, lead to poor long-term results.

Aim: To evaluate critically the results of open reduction, fracture stabilisation and ligament repair in a cohort of greater and lesser arc perilunate dislocations treated by one surgeon at a single institution.

Method: Ten patients who underwent reconstructive surgery for perilunate wrist injuries were reviewed at least 18 months following their surgery. The pathology included three pure perilunate dislocations (PD), three trans-scaphoid perilunate fracture-dislocations (TSPD), one TSPD with a lunate fracture, one trans-scaphoid PD, and two trans radial styloid PDs. Each patient was assessed at a single clinic visit. A clinical rating based on the modified Mayo Wrist Scoring Chart was applied noting pain, satisfaction, range of motion and grip strength. Radiographic analysis was also performed.

Results: Nine out of 10 patients had returned to their preoperative employment. Overall, 70% of the patients were satisfied with their wrist function and 50% had mild pain only on vigorous activities. There were five ‘fair’ results and five ‘poor’ results. The range of scores was 30 to 75 (average = 55). Average arc of motion was 78 degrees. Three patients showed evidence of wrist arthritis. One patient had a pin site infection. Two patients still had mild nerve symptoms – one ulnar and one median nerve. One patient needed a proximal row carpectomy.

Conclusions: Greater and lesser arc injuries of the wrist are associated with high energy trauma. These injuries result in significantly reduced wrist function, however they are treated. Open reduction and ligament repair with fracture stabilisation lead to a high degree of patient satisfaction and pain relief. In this study the clinical wrist score did not support this.