Compression Screw Fixation of Lunate Fracture: Case Report and Review of the Literature

Abstract

Abstract Background Isolated traumatic lunate fractures without other surgical carpal bone or ligamentous injuries are extremely rare, with few published reports available to guide management. Lunate fracture management is controversial, and depends on concurrent injuries of adjacent carpal bones, ligaments, risk of ischemia, and displacement. Case Description A 48-year-old right hand dominant man suffered a crush injury to the left hand caught between a forklift and a metal shelf. Radiographs and computed tomography imaging of the left hand and wrist were significant for a displaced Teisen IV fracture of the lunate. A dorsal ligament sparing approach was utilized to access, reduce, and fixate the fracture using a headless compression screw. After immobilization and rehab, at 9 months after initial injury, the patient was back to work on full duty without restriction and pleased with the results of his treatment. Literature Review A literature review of lunate fracture compression screw fixation was performed and revealed a total of three reports indicating successful treatment of fractures, with patients returning to full activity. Clinical Relevance Lunate fractures are rare, often missed, and treating these injuries can be challenging, particularly in the setting of acute trauma. Based on our limited experience, we believe that open reduction and internal fixation of isolated Teisen IV lunate fractures with a headless compression screw is a viable treatment modality with satisfactory outcomes.