Scapholunate ligament

Scapholunate ligament
Shown is the right hand, palm down (left) and palm up (right). A=Scaphoid, B=Lunate
From	scaphoid
To	lunate
Anatomical terminology []

The scapholunate ligament is a ligament of the wrist.

The scapholunate ligament is an intraarticular ligament binding the scaphoid and lunate bones of the wrist together. It is divided into three areas, dorsal, proximal and palmar, with the dorsal segment being the strongest part. It is the main stabilizer of the scaphoid. In contrast to the scapholunate ligament, the lunotriquetral ligament is more prominent on the palmar side.

Complete rupture of this ligament leads to wrist instability, termed scapholunate advanced collapse (SLAC). The instability can be either dynamic in nature which typically cannot be seen on X-Ray, or static which can be seen on X-Ray. The Watson's test may be used in diagnosis.

Stress view showing scapholunate instability

Stress view showing scapholunate instability

Scapholunate ligament disruption associated with a colles fracture

Scapholunate disassociation

Treatment will vary depending upon the degree of injury and can range from observation, through to surgical reconstruction of the wrist.