Lunotriquetral (LT)

Lunotriquetral Injury Treatment in Dubai at Emirates Hospitals Group.  Lunotriquetral injuries involve damage to the ligament connecting the lunate and triquetral bones in the wrist, crucial for maintaining wrist stability and movement. At Emirates Hospitals Group, we have the best hand and wrist surgeons in Dubai, specializing in diagnosing and treating lunotriquetral injuries with advanced techniques and personalized care. Our expert team focuses on restoring wrist function and alleviating pain through comprehensive treatment strategies.

• Know About Lunotriquetral Injuries
• Symptoms & Causes
• Diagnosis & Treatment

Know About Lunotriquetral Injuries

The lunotriquetral ligament is a key structure in wrist biomechanics, linking the lunate and triquetral bones. This ligament is essential for wrist stability and smooth movement, as it helps to maintain proper alignment between these bones. Injuries to this ligament can disrupt wrist function and cause significant discomfort, impacting daily activities. Lunotriquetral injuries can range from mild sprains to complete tears, requiring timely intervention to avoid long-term complications.

Symptoms

The symptoms of lunotriquetral injuries can vary depending on the severity of the damage but typically include:

1. Wrist Pain: Persistent pain on the ulnar side of the wrist, often aggravated by wrist movement or pressure.
2. Swelling: Swelling in the wrist area, particularly around the lunotriquetral joint, which can be noticeable and painful.
3. Reduced Range of Motion: Difficulty in moving the wrist fully, with limited range of motion, particularly during twisting or gripping actions.
4. Weakness: Decreased grip strength and general weakness in the wrist, affecting the ability to perform daily tasks.
5. Tenderness: Tenderness in the area where the lunotriquetral ligament is located, which can be exacerbated by touch or movement.

Causes

Lunotriquetral injuries can arise from various factors, including:

1. Trauma: Direct trauma to the wrist, such as falls or accidents, can lead to lunotriquetral ligament injuries. This is often seen in high-impact sports or accidents.
2. Repetitive Stress: Continuous stress on the wrist from activities that involve repetitive motions or heavy lifting can weaken the lunotriquetral ligament and lead to injury.
3. Degenerative Conditions: Conditions such as arthritis or wear and tear over time can weaken the ligament, making it more susceptible to injury.
4. Acute Injury: Sudden, forceful movements or impacts to the wrist can cause immediate damage to the lunotriquetral ligament.

Diagnosis

Proper diagnosis of lunotriquetral injuries involves several steps to accurately assess the extent of the injury:

1. Medical History and Physical Examination: A thorough evaluation includes discussing the patient’s symptoms, injury history, and conducting a physical exam to assess pain, swelling, and wrist function.
2. Imaging Studies:
   • X-rays: To detect any fractures or dislocations in the wrist and assess overall bone alignment.
   • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Provides detailed images of soft tissues, including the lunotriquetral ligament, to evaluate the extent of ligament damage.
   • CT Scan: May be used to obtain detailed images of wrist bones and ligament injuries, especially when more clarity is needed.
   • Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure that allows direct visualization of the lunotriquetral ligament and assessment of its condition through small incisions.
3. Functional Tests: Assessing wrist function and the impact of the injury on daily activities and movements.

Treatment

Treatment for lunotriquetral injuries at Emirates Hospitals Group focuses on alleviating pain, restoring wrist stability, and improving function. Our approach includes:

1. Non-Surgical Treatments:
   • Rest and Immobilization: Utilizing splints or braces to immobilize the wrist and allow the lunotriquetral ligament to heal.
   • Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the affected area to reduce swelling and numb pain, typically for 15-20 minutes several times a day.
   • Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain medications or prescribed drugs to manage pain and inflammation.
   • Physical Therapy: Customized exercises and rehabilitation programs to strengthen the wrist, improve flexibility, and restore functionality.
2. Surgical Treatments:
   • Arthroscopic Surgery: A minimally invasive procedure to repair or reconstruct the damaged lunotriquetral ligament using a small camera and surgical instruments through tiny incisions.
   • Open Surgery: In more severe cases, open surgery may be required to repair or reconstruct the lunotriquetral ligament and restore wrist stability.