[Scapholunate instability of the wrist--a review]

Injury to the scapholunate ligament is considered the most common and burdened with the most negative squeals cause of the carpal instability. The article provides information on the functional anatomy of the scapholunate complex and the consequences of the tear of the ligament that joints these bones. Rupture of this ligament, associated with tear of extrinsic (secondary) stabilizers of the wrist leads on to dislocation of the carpal bones one against another and, finally, results in carpal instability. Classifications of the severity of the instability based on radiological and arthroscopic grounds were presented. Clinical symptoms and signs of the condition were described as well as imaging techniques helpful in its diagnosing. The usefulness of arthroscopy was emphasised in diagnosing of scapholunate complex disturbances, particularly those which are negative radiologically and present with no typical symptoms.