Arthroscopic repair of dorsal radiocarpal ligament tears

Various authors have highlighted the importance of the dorsal radiocarpal (DRC) ligament in normal carpal kinematics. It is a secondary stabilizer of the lunate and has a role in midcarpal stability. Disruption of the DRC ligament has been implicated in the development of static VISI and DISI deformities, prompting some authors to perform an open reattachment of the dorsal capsule if there is an associated scapholunate ligament tear. The management of these tears is still evolving. The contribution of a DRC ligament tear to the development of wrist pain remains uncertain when combined with additional wrist pathology. An isolated DRC ligament tear was responsible for chronic dorsal wrist pain in 2 patients. A previously undescribed inside-out repair method of the DRC ligament using a volar wrist portal was successful in relieving the pain. Recognition of this condition and further research into treatment methods is needed. Arthroscopy: The Journal of Arthroscopic and Related Surgery, Vol 18, No 9 (November-December), 2002: E49