Scapholunate Sprain

Brief Review:

• Ligament sprains of the wrist usually result from falls on an outstretched hand.
• Most are mild and resolve with splinting and symptomatic treatment.
• Physical examination typically reveals no gross deformities, although dorsal swelling may be noted

Plain radiographs should be obtained in all patients with suspected

scapholunate sprain and should include

• a standard AP view
• AP with a clenched fist (accentuates scapholunate joint widening)
• standard lateral view
• posteroanterior (PA) view in ulnar deviation (assesses scaphoid bone for fracture).

Treatment

• Simple scapholunate sprain require protection and rest with a period of splinting. After initial treatment, the patient is weaned from the wrist splint and begins active ROM and hand strengthening therapy.
• Scapholunate dissociation: surgery