[Arthroscopy in diagnosis of carpal instability]

In a series of 45 patients with carpal instability, arthroscopy detected 2.9 ligament tears per wrist. The lesions were found in 50% in the radio-carpal compartment and in 50% in the midcarpal compartment on the ulnar aspect. In 70% the tears were found to be combined in both compartments. These findings may be in contrast to the today's classification of carpal instability. Arthroscopy is of great value in evaluating the most appropriate method of surgical repair on patients with carpal instability.