lunotriquetral

Lunotriquetral refers to the joint and supporting structures between the lunate and triquetrum, two of the eight carpal bones in the proximal row of the wrist. The lunotriquetral joint is a plane synovial articulation that allows small gliding movements as the wrist flexes and extends. It is stabilized by dorsal and volar lunotriquetral interosseous ligaments, which form the primary soft-tissue restraints, and by the surrounding joint capsule and retinacular fibers. Together with the scapholunate and radiocarpal joints, the lunotriquetral joint helps transfer load and maintain carpal alignment during motion.

Injury to the lunotriquetral joint commonly presents as lunotriquetral dissociation or ligament tear after a fall on an outstretched hand or impact. Patients typically report ulnar-sided wrist pain, tenderness over the LT interval, swelling, and sometimes mechanical symptoms such as clicking. Diagnosis can be suggested by radiographs showing widening of the LT interval or secondary carpal instability; MRI or CT arthrography can confirm a ligament tear; wrist arthroscopy may be used for definitive assessment and treatment.

Treatment depends on severity. Acute partial tears may respond to immobilization and activity modification, while complete tears or chronic instability often require surgical repair or reconstruction of the LT ligament, and occasionally stabilization procedures around the lunate and triquetrum. In advanced degenerative cases, salvage procedures may be considered.

Congenital lunotriquetral coalition is a separate condition in which the lunate and triquetrum are fused. It can be asymptomatic or cause wrist discomfort and limited motion; diagnosis is typically by radiographs and confirmed by cross-sectional imaging.