Comparing two surgical techniques for wrist ligament reconstruction

Reconstruction of Chronic Scapholunate Ligament Injuries in the Wrist: A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing The Berger Capsulodesis and Three-Ligament-Tenodesis (3LT)

Not applicable Interventional University of Aarhus · NCT04348253

This study is testing which of two surgical methods works better for people with wrist ligament problems to help them feel better in the long run.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Aarhus Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Aarhus and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04348253 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This multicenter study aims to compare two surgical techniques commonly used for the reconstruction of the scapholunate (SL) ligament. Participants with symptomatic SL instability will be randomized to receive either the Berger technique or the 3LT technique. The study will evaluate patient-reported outcomes, clinical assessments, and radiological results up to 10 years post-treatment. The goal is to determine which surgical approach yields better long-term outcomes for patients with complete SL ligament lesions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-60 with symptomatic SL instability and confirmed complete SL ligament lesions.

Not a fit: Patients with less severe SL injuries or those with additional wrist complications may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved surgical techniques for treating wrist ligament injuries, enhancing recovery and quality of life for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown varying success with different surgical techniques for ligament reconstruction, making this a relevant comparison in the field.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18-60 years (both included).
* Symptomatic SL instability (VAS score ³3, QDASH score ³ 20).
* \> 6 weeks since symptomatic hand trauma (chronic SL lesions).
* SL gapping on radiographic stress views or SL gapping (³2mm) on static PA views.
* Complete SL ligament lesion confirmed by wrist arthroscopy

Exclusion Criteria:

* Geissler grade 1-3 SLL injury (evaluated by arthroscopy).
* Concomitant complete luno-triquetral (LT) ligament injury (evaluated by arthroscopy).
* Lesion of TFCC leading to DRUJ instability (evaluated by arthroscopy).
* Radiocarpal or midcarpal arthritis evaluated by arthroscopy.
* Previous fracture in carpus or intraarticular radius fracture with step off (³2 mm), disposing to posttraumatic arthritis.
* Adverse effects after extra articular radial fractures (dorsal angulation ³10 grader).
* Peroperatively non-reducible scaphoid flexion/SL gap.
* Terminal illness or severe medical illness: ASA score higher than or equal to 3.

Where this trial is running

Aarhus and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Ligament InjuryWrist Sprain
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.