Fractures and dislocations of the carpus

Abstract

Although one-eighth to one-tenth of all fractures of the wrist are carpal fractures, they may be overlooked, unless attention is directed particularly to them in diagnostic examination. Symptoms may be slight or lacking, but diagnosis is important because such injuries may give rise to pain or disability later. There are certain guides and procedures in physical and roentgenographic examination which make diagnosis easier and more certain. Treatment depends upon the nature of the lesion. It must be based on all the knowledge obtainable by examination, mental review of the anatomy and pathologic changes, inquiry into the cause of injury, and the interpretation of roentgenologic findings.