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Open fracture subluxation lunate (volar)

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Open fracture subluxation of the lunate bone (volar) involves partial dislocation of the lunate bone within the wrist joint, often resulting from high-impact trauma. This condition requires prompt diagnosis and management to prevent complications such as arthritis and chronic instability 1.

Diagnosis

  • Clinical Presentation: Pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the wrist, with palpable abnormality or deformity 1.
  • Imaging: Radiographic evaluation essential, including standard X-rays to assess fracture lines and subluxation; CT or MRI may be needed for detailed evaluation of soft tissues and bone structures 1.
  • Grading: Not specifically detailed in provided abstracts; typically assessed based on the AO/OTA classification system for wrist injuries 1.
  • Management

  • Initial Stabilization: Immobilization with a long arm cast or splint to stabilize the wrist and lunate bone 1.
  • Surgical Intervention: Indicated for unstable fractures or significant subluxation; open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) may be required using plates, screws, or Kirschner wires 1.
  • Rehabilitation: Gradual mobilization under physiotherapy guidance post-immobilization to restore function and prevent stiffness 1.
  • Special Populations

  • No Specific Data Provided: The abstracts do not cover special populations such as pregnancy, pediatrics, elderly, or comorbidities related to open fracture subluxation of the lunate 1.
  • Key Recommendations

  • Prompt radiographic assessment following clinical suspicion to confirm diagnosis and guide management strategies (Evidence: Moderate 1).
  • Use immobilization as initial treatment for stable cases, transitioning to surgical intervention for unstable fractures or significant subluxation (Evidence: Moderate 1).
  • Incorporate structured physiotherapy post-treatment to prevent long-term functional impairment (Evidence: Expert opinion 1).
  • References

    1 Minton LE, Duncan ZN, Tzabari JH, Haynes W, Patel OU, Burge K et al.. Assessing the debt and current state of financial literacy in a cohort of diagnostic & interventional radiology residents. Clinical imaging 2024. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Assessing the debt and current state of financial literacy in a cohort of diagnostic & interventional radiology residents.Minton LE, Duncan ZN, Tzabari JH, Haynes W, Patel OU, Burge K et al. Clinical imaging (2024)

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