Selected Features of Our Program

Evaluation and Diagnosis

The wrist is a naturally unstable joint composed of seven small bones. It is held together by multiple short ligaments that are strong but can be easily injured. Most patients assume that a swollen and painful wrist following an injury is just a sprain. Unfortunately, most doctors assume the same thing when x-rays do not show any abnormalities. The problem is that complete disruption of the wrist ligaments does not appear on x-ray. The only way they can be identified is through a physical examination by a specialist in wrist surgery. Studies such as an MRI scan may be ordered but do not always show the full picture.

Treatment and Recovery

If the physical examination shows enough evidence for a significant ligament injury, the only truly accurate method of evaluation is with a fiber-optic arthroscopic camera used to test the strength of the ligament. This requires a limited and short duration anesthesia. Fortunately, repair of the ligament can also be performed immediately after evaluation with the same arthroscopic equipment. Wrist ligament injuries are famous for causing severe and permanent losses of motion and strength. Use of the most modern and minimally invasive techniques has great advantages in reducing these negative outcomes. After stabilizing and repairing the ligaments, patients begin motion rehabilitation. Some cases leave a temporary set of pins in place that are removed at 8 weeks. More aggressive rehabilitation and strengthening begin at this time. Ultimately, the goal is to return to all of the patient's original activities at full capacity.