Thermal Debridement in the Management of Low Grade Scapholunate Ligament Tears

Low grade scapholunate interosseous ligament (SLIL) tears are often managed with mechanical or thermal arthroscopic debridement, although this remains controversial. This study aimed to assess the short-term outcomes of thermal debridement of low-grade SLIL tears. Patients with low grade SLIL tears who underwent arthroscopic thermal debridement between 2010 and 2017 were identified and divided into two groups: isolated thermal debridement and concomitant procedures. Patient reported outcomes, wrist range of motion, grip strength, return to work, and baseline activities were evaluated. Twenty-seven patients underwent isolated thermal debridement and 20 underwent concomitant procedures. Pain significantly improved in both groups. Grip strength significantly improved in the concomitant procedure group. There was no significant change in wrist range of motion in either group. Most patients returned to baseline activities. Arthroscopic thermal debridement provides good outcomes in patients with low grade SLIL tears both in isolation and in association with other injuries.