Spectrum of insertion patterns of the dorsal intercarpal ligament: findings from a cadaveric study

The dorsal intercarpal (DIC) ligament plays a crucial role in wrist stability, particularly in maintaining the integrity of the scapholunate and proximal carpal row. This cadaveric study aimed to characterize the insertions of the DIC ligament, with a specific focus on its attachment to the lunate and the radial aspect of the wrist. Twenty cadaveric wrists were dissected, and measurements were taken using ImageJ.JS software and direct ruler assessment by three orthopedic surgeons for accuracy. The results revealed that in 95% of cases, the DIC ligament inserted at the dorsal margin of the trapezium, with attachments to one or more metacarpal bases. The second metacarpal base received distal fibers in 90% of cases, while the third and fourth metacarpals were involved in 50% and 10% of cases, respectively. The ligament's insertion on the lunate was consistently present, with a mean distance of 0.87 mm from the articular margin. These findings reinforce the DIC ligament's role in stabilizing the dorsal aspect of the wrist and its potential implications for surgical repair strategies in cases of scapholunate instability. Understanding these anatomical details can aid in arthroscopic evaluations and improve surgical outcomes for patients with dorsal midcarpal instability.