Nondisplaced fractures of the proximal carpal row: case report

Lunate fractures and associated radiocarpal and midcarpal instabilities: a systematic review

The aim of this study was to analyse lunate fractures and any associated osseo-ligamentous injuries. A systematic review identified 34 cases. We identified carpal instabilities at the radiocarpal and midcarpal joints in volar and dorsal directions. Radiocarpal instabilities (10/34) were usually dorsoradial (8/10), with a transverse lunate fracture, best seen on a coronal image. Midcarpal instabilities (24/34) were usually volar (14/18), with a volar lunate shear fracture, best seen on a sagittal image. Instabilities were sub-classified into non-displaced, subluxated and dislocated. Associated fractures of the scaphoid and the radial and ulnar styloid processes were common. Lunate fractures without subluxation or dislocation had good outcomes with cast immobilization or fixation of associated fractures. Lunate fracture-subluxations are unstable injuries that are best managed with fixation of the carpal fractures. Lunate fracture-dislocations are complex injuries, requiring stabilization of the lunate, associated fractures and ligament injuries; complications are common and acute or delayed salvage procedures may be required.

Perilunate Injuries, Not Dislocated (PLIND)

Purpose We reviewed a series of equivalents of perilunate dislocations and fracture-dislocations (PLDs-PLFDs) in which there was no dislocation of the capitate from the lunate on the initial radiographs. We propose to include these injuries as a variant of perilunate dislocations that we have termed a perilunate injury, not dislocated (PLIND) lesion in a modified classification of perilunate injuries. Methods A review of the records of all acute perilunate injuries and displaced carpal fractures was done in a single-center university hospital wrist surgery unit over a 5-year period. All cases presenting at the acute stage with displaced fractures of scaphoid, lunate, triquetrum, or capitate along with scapholunate and/or lunotriquetral dissociation but no dislocation of the capitate from the lunate in the sagittal or coronal plane were reviewed and considered as PLIND lesions. Results We identified 11 patients with PLIND lesions. Three cases with clinical and radiological follow-up are presented. Discussion Equivalents of PLDs-PLFDs presenting without dislocation of the capitate from the lunate do exist. These injuries may be overlooked despite their severity. They require both osseous and ligamentous repair. Including them into an existing perilunate injuries classification highlights their recognition and enables a better understanding and treatment of both acute and chronic nondislocated perilunate injuries. Level of Evidence Level IV, retrospective case series.

Translunate perilunate injuries-a spectrum of this uncommon injury

Purpose To review a series of translunate perilunate dislocations to analyze the, mechanism of injury, diagnosis, management, and outcome. Methods A literature review and a survey of the International Wrist Investigators Workshop were performed to locate cases. Results Translunate perilunate injuries are rare. There is a spectrum of severity. The mechanism of injury is usually high-energy, and multiple fractures are the norm. High-energy mechanism, perilunate dislocation, comminuted lunate fracture and delayed presentation greater than 7 days are associated with a higher likelihood of a salvage procedure being required. Discussion Translunate injuries are a complex variant of perilunate dislocations. Early diagnosis is critical in understanding the complexity of the injury. Lunate fixation should be performed prior to bony and ligamentous stabilization of the proximal row. In delayed or highly comminuted cases, salvage procedures are the preferred option. Including a translunate arc in addition to the greater and lesser carpal arc would lead to a more inclusive classification. Level of Evidence Level IV.