Long-term results of electrothermal shrinkage of wrist ligaments followed by sensorimotor training (Norway): A cohort study

Abstract

Aim: To examine the short- and long- term results of electrothermal shrinkage followed by sensorimotor training for patients with wrist pain after injury to the scapholunate (SL) and lunotriquetral (LT) ligament. Design: Pre-post design quantitative cohort. Material: 24 patients (21 women) with partial SL or/and LT ligament injury, median age 28 (Q1; Q3 22; 37). Methods: Preoperative- and six-month data were obtained from medical records and the patients were invited to a long-term follow-up 3-5 years after the intervention. Patient-reported outcome measures included short version of Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH), DASH work, and DASH sport/performing arts, the Patient-Rated Wrist and Hand Evaluation (PRWHE) questionnaire with sub-scores for pain and function, and Visual Analog Scale for pain. Ability to perform work and physical leisure activities were recorded (yes, partial or no). Grip strength was measured with Jamar dynamometer. Results: From preoperative to short and long-term evaluation there were statistically and clinically significant changes in all the patient reported outcome measures (N=15-24), but not for grip-strength (N=7-9). Most of the patients were able to return to work and physical leisure activities. Conclusion: Electrothermal shrinkage followed by sensorimotor training after partial SL and/or LT injury can improve self-reported function, pain, and facilitate return to work and free time activities.

Keywords

• sensorimotor training
• wrist
• partial ligament injury