Arthroscopic dorsal capsulodesis for isolated lunotriquetral interosseous ligament injuries

We assessed the outcomes of isolated lunotriquetral ligament injuries in ten patients who underwent arthroscopic dorsal capsulodesis. Data from patient records, radiologic images and arthroscopic video records were evaluated. The patients were evaluated for ulnar-sided wrist pain with history and physical examination. Preoperative radiographs and MRIs for pain aetiology were assessed. The patients underwent arthroscopic dorsal capsulodesis and were evaluated 29 months (range 19-45) after surgery. Nine patients returned to their original jobs. In one patient pain was aggravated with heavy activities. Mean scapholunate angle was 44°. There were significant improvements postoperatively in pinch and grip strength and MAYO wrist, patient-reported wrist evaluation and pain scores. The wrist flexion-extension and the radial ulnar deviation were significantly improved compared with the contralateral hand. We conclude that arthroscopic dorsal capsulodesis offers effective management for isolated lunotriquetral interosseous ligament injuries.Level of evidence: IV.