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The late reduction of carpal dislocations
1Department of Orthopaedics, Harare Central Hospital, Zengeza, Zimbabwe.
Journal of Hand Surgery (Edinburgh, Scotland)
|April 1, 1992
Summary
Open reduction for delayed lunate or perilunar dislocations yielded poor X-ray results but surprisingly good function, allowing patients to return to normal activities. This surgical approach remains viable for late presentations.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Traumatology
- Wrist Biomechanics
Background:
- Lunate and perilunar dislocations are significant wrist injuries.
- Delayed treatment can compromise outcomes.
- Open reduction is a surgical technique for joint realignment.
Observation:
- Five cases of delayed open reduction (2 weeks to 6 months post-injury) for lunate/perilunar dislocations were analyzed.
- Functional outcomes and radiographic results were assessed.
- Patient return to normal activities, including heavy manual labor, was noted.
Findings:
- Surgical outcomes showed poor range of motion and radiographic appearance.
- Despite poor visual results, functional recovery was surprisingly good.
- No further surgical intervention was required in most cases, except for one instance of radial styloid excision.
Implications:
- Open reduction is a feasible treatment option for late-presenting lunate and perilunar dislocations.
- Functional recovery may exceed radiographic expectations in delayed cases.
- Further research into long-term functional outcomes and optimal timing for surgical intervention is warranted.