Chronic, Reducible Scapholunate Ligament Injury: Scapholunate Axis Method (SLAM)

Chronic, reducible scapholunate ligament (SLIL) injuries that are irreparable require scapholunate ligament reconstruction to improve carpal kinematics and prevent progression to arthritis. We present the case of a 44-year-old man with a chronic SLIL tear who underwent Scapholunate Axis Method (SLAM) reconstruction. SLAM utilizes palmaris autograft in the central axis of the scapholunate interval using a transosseous tunnel and a limb of the same autograft to reconstruct the dorsal SLIL. The construct provides a flexible, biological tether in the central axis with decreased creep compared to other reconstruction methods. Postoperatively, the patient achieved pain relief and excellent motion following surgery and went on to continue competitive sports.