Dr. Mollie Manley Innovates Minimally-Invasive Wrist Surgery

Dr. Mollie Manley, an orthopaedic surgeon at Crystal Clinic in Fairlawn, Ohio, has introduced two groundbreaking minimally-invasive surgical techniques for treating common wrist injuries. These innovative methods were published on October 21, 2025, in the Journal of Hand Surgery, the official publication of The American Society for Surgery of the Hand.

The first technique, known as the Anatomic C Scapholunate Reconstruction Technique, addresses ligament tears in the wrist, a frequent injury resulting from falls onto an outstretched hand. This procedure utilizes a single, minimally-invasive incision, which reduces the complexity of the surgery and the time required for the operation. It also safeguards the median nerve from potential injury.

“This technique yields improved surgical outcomes compared to the classic repair for this type of wrist injury,” Dr. Manley stated. “It offers a more precise recreation of the C-shaped ligament anatomy, enhances range of motion, and strengthens the repair of ligament tears.” Dr. Manley has been active in teaching this technique to fellow orthopaedic surgeons across the United States, contributing to its adoption worldwide.

In addition to the Anatomic C Scapholunate Reconstruction Technique, Dr. Manley has developed the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC) Repair All Arthroscopic Knotless technique. This all-arthroscopic approach focuses on repairing complex tears in wrist cartilage, often resulting from falls or twisting injuries. The technique allows for a comprehensive view of TFCC tears, ensuring complete repairs while simplifying the surgical process.

Dr. Manley highlighted several advantages of the TFCC technique, including a limited incision, reduced post-operative pain, minimal scarring, and quicker recovery times. “Compared to other surgical methods for this type of injury, this approach provides a strong and effective repair,” she explained.

The introduction of these surgical innovations underscores Crystal Clinic Orthopaedic Center’s commitment to advancing orthopaedic care, establishing its reputation as a nationally recognized leader in the field. With a team of board-certified and board-eligible surgeons, many of whom possess advanced fellowship training, Crystal Clinic performs thousands of surgeries annually.

Crystal Clinic is distinguished as one of the top 100 hospitals in America, recognized for its excellence in total hip, knee, shoulder, and spinal fusion procedures. It is one of only three hospitals in the United States to receive The Joint Commission certifications in these areas. Additionally, it has been rated #1 in Ohio and among the top 100 hospitals nationally by CareChex/Quantros Analytics, based on an objective assessment of hospitals and health systems.

The organization has also garnered the highest five-star rating in patient experience from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and has been recognized as one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Joint Replacement by Healthgrades. With a presence in Northeast Ohio and multiple clinic and hospital locations, including urgent care facilities, Crystal Clinic is well-equipped to cater to patients with orthopaedic needs.

For those seeking to consult with Dr. Manley, appointments can be made by calling 330-668-4055 or scheduling online at CrystalClinic.com.

To learn more about the Anatomic C Scapholunate Reconstruction Technique, visit the journal’s website. For details on the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC) Repair All Arthroscopic Knotless technique, additional information is available on ScienceDirect.