Treatment of Chronic Scapholunate Dissociation with FCR Tenodesis: A Systematic Review of the Results of MBT and 3LT Technique.

A systematic literature review was performed to assess the results of modified Brunelli tenodesis modified Brunelli technique (MBT) and three-ligament tenodesis (3LT) in the treatment of chronic scapholunate (SL) ligament injuries reported between 1998 and 2001. This review describes the surgical techniques, clinical outcomes, radiological evaluations, and complication rates among 600 patients. Following adherence to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, 15 studies were included (289 MBT and 311 3LT procedures). A heterogeneity in surgical technique was noted. An average pain reduction of 3 points on the visual analog score and a flexion-extension arch compatible with most daily activities were found. Radiographic follow-up showed medium-term improvements, but loss of reduction was observed in the long term. Secondary degeneration was seen in 15% of cases. Radiographic decay did not correlate with clinical outcomes. The overall complication rate was 9%. This review underscores the satisfactory clinical outcome of both procedures. Nonetheless, both interventions pose risks of complications and/or degeneration in the long term.