Comprehension of Midcarpal Instability

Abstract

The midcarpal instability is the state with instability between the proximal and distal carpal rows, without dissociation between carpal bones. It can be divided into the intrinsic one that is caused by ligament hyperlaxity, and extrinsic one that is caused secondarily by the malunion of distal radius. The pathophysiology of the intrinsic one is still unknown, and the treatment is also controversial. On the other hand, the extrinsic one can be treated by corrective osteotomy of the radial malunion. This review investigated the comprehension, definition, classification, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of the midcarpal instability.