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Blatt dorsal capsulodesis for scapholunate instability.
S Muermans1, L De Smet, H Van Ransbeeck
1Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital of Pellenberg, Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium.
Acta Orthopaedica Belgica
|February 17, 2000
Summary
The Blatt procedure offers a valuable option for treating scapholunate instability, improving grip strength and patient satisfaction in many cases. While some limitations exist, it remains a viable therapeutic choice for specific patient groups.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Hand Surgery
- Wrist Biomechanics
Background:
- Scapholunate instability is a common wrist condition.
- Various surgical techniques exist for its treatment.
- The Blatt capsulodesis is one such procedure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the outcomes of the Blatt procedure for scapholunate instability.
- To assess patient satisfaction, functional recovery, and complications.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 17 patients treated with the Blatt procedure.
- Assessment of preradiographic, dynamic, and static scapholunate instability.
- Subjective and objective outcome measures including pain, activity, range of motion, and grip strength.
Main Results:
- Significant improvement in grip force (11.2 kg).
- Good average pain and activity scores (60.8/80).
- 10 patients fully satisfied; 7 had reservations. Average flexion/extension loss of 11-11.3 degrees. Associated scapholunate interosseous ligament repair showed no additional benefit. Complications included infection and reflex sympathetic dystrophy.
Conclusions:
- The Blatt capsulodesis is a valuable therapeutic option for preradiographic and dynamic scapholunate instability.
- It can be considered as an adjunct to scapholunate interosseous ligament repair for acute lesions.
- Despite some limitations, it offers a viable treatment when superior procedures are lacking.