Many complex wrist injuries are missed on initial assessments. A complete scapholunate ligament tear often goes undiagnosed until it causes debilitating pain and long-term joint instability. This storyboard sequence takes you through the entire journey, starting with the initial assessment.
Observe the pre-operative X-ray, which clearly shows a wide gap between the scaphoid and lunate bones—the hallmark sign of a complex scapholunate dissociation. Following this crucial diagnosis, witness the surgical solution: a complex ligament repair stabilized with percutaneous pins. By precise placement, the scaphoid is held firmly to the lunate, allowing the ligament to properly heal over 6 weeks.
Finally, follow along for the satisfying “functional restoration” phase. Watch as the pins are gently removed percutaneously after 6 weeks. Immediately after removal, the patient performs flexion and extension exercises, reporting “Excellent! No Pain!” The sequence concludes with a 3-month follow-up X-ray showing the joint fully stabilized and the patient happily returned to work. This case demonstrates why dedicated specialist care is vital for complex upper extremity injuries.
