Microvascular anatomy of the radioscapholunate ligament of the wrist.

Abstract

The microvascular circulation and basic structural features of the radioscapholunate ligament of the wrist were studied in six fresh cadaver specimens by injection and clearing techniques. A rich vascular supply was found to originate from vessels that perforate the palmar capsule and enter the synovium that surrounds the ligament. By way of branches from the synovium, the radioscapholunate ligament and most of the scapholunate interosseous ligament receive an abundant blood supply. No contributions are derived from the bony attachments. Observation under light microscopy revealed a delicate, well-vascularized ligament consisting of regular collagen bundles. No elastic fibers were observed. This study indicates that the radioscapholunate ligament has a vascular supply that may be sufficient for healing by known methods.