Outcome was studied in 14 patients with chronic mechanical (crepitant) wrist pain (symptomatic for more than 6 months) who had undergone arthroscopic debridement and early mobilization for the treatment of isolated partial scapholunate and lunotriquetral ligament injuries. Fourteen patients were available for a minimum 2-year follow-up interview, physical examination, and x-ray film evaluation. Eleven patients had complete relief of symptoms and had returned to work within 7 weeks of surgery. The other three (all workers' compensation cases) reported occasional mild wrist pain; two had returned to work a mean of 6.5 weeks after surgery, and the third did not return for 1 year. None of the patients had a statistically significant loss of grip or pinch strength. X-ray films and dynamic examination under fluoroscopy demonstrated no abnormalities. Thirteen of the 14 patients were highly satisfied (although 2 patients still had occasional mild wrist pain). Arthroscopic debridement of partial intrinsic ligament injuries provided excellent relief of painful crepitant symptoms and allowed for early return of wrist function in 13 of 14 cases.