Scapholunate Ligament Reconstruction: Early Dart Throwing Motion Versus Motion in Anatomical Planes

Scapholunate Ligament Reconstruction: Early Dart Throwing Motion Versus Motion in Anatomical Planes

Patients undergoing scapholunate ligament reconstruction at Balgrist University Hospital are divided into two groups and receive two different types of mobilisation postoperatively. The investigators will compare the outcome (pain, strength, mobility) between the two groups 1 year after the operation.

The so-called 'dart-throwing motion' (DTM) plane of movement, from radial extension to ulnar flexion, has gained attention as it has been shown to be an important axis of wrist movement during activities of daily living. Further studies have shown that during movement of the intact wrist in the dart throwing plane, most of the movement occurs in the mediocarpal joint, while the proximal row remains relatively immobile.

In scapholunate (SL) ligament reconstruction using the flexor carpi radialis tendon, the SL interval is immobilised using 2 Kirschner wires for 8-10 weeks to relieve the strain on the ligament and allow it to heal. From the 2nd postoperative week, mobilisation is started using DTM mobilisation or mobilisation in the anatomical plane. The aim of the study is to investigate in a randomised trial whether mobilisation in the anatomical plane produces the same postoperative results.

In this project, the investigators will compare two types of mobilisation in the rehabilitation of SL ligament reconstruction. The participants will be randomised to two treatment groups. This procedure therefore corresponds to a risk category A in 'other' clinical trials according to Chapter 4 ClinO.

Inclusion Criteria:

• SL Ligament reconstruction at Balgrist University Hospital
• at least 18 years
• Written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Age under 18 years
• Refusal of participation
• Pregnancy