Scapholunate failure: a long term clinical follow-up

Rotary subluxation of the carpal scaphoid is a rare condition that may lead to collapse of the wrist. The subluxation is the result of disruption of the scapholunate interosseous ligament, often secondary to scaphoid fracture or significant trauma. The characteristic clinical and radiographic findings are discussed. Controversy exists regarding treatment, but lack of treatment predisposes the wrist to degenerative changes. A case report is discussed which illustrates the salient features of this condition.