Posttraumatic Static Volar Intercalated Segment Instability - Iatrogenic or Missed Injury

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Hand and Wrist Surgery
• Trauma Care

Background:

• Carpal instability encompasses diverse injury patterns, with dissociative injuries being most prevalent.
• Understanding carpal instability is essential for effective orthopedic management.

Observation:

• A 13-year-old male presented with restricted wrist movement six months post-fall.
• The patient had a prior closed distal forearm fracture (both bones) treated with K-wire fixation.
• Sequential follow-up revealed volar lunate instability.

Findings:

• The case highlights a delayed presentation of volar lunate instability following forearm fracture.
• Carpal instability can manifest insidiously after initial trauma treatment.

Implications:

• Early detection of posttraumatic carpal instability is vital for optimal patient outcomes.
• Timely intervention can mitigate long-term functional deficits and reduce patient morbidity.
• This case underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring for carpal instability in trauma patients.