The Emergent Evaluation and Treatment of Hand and Wrist Injuries: An Update

Abstract

Injury patterns of the hand and wrist can be complex and challenging for the emergency physician to diagnose and treat. The ability of the hand to perform delicate maneuvers requires a very intricate interplay of bones, ligaments, and tendons. Unfortunately, due to the omnipresence of the hand, the hand and wrist are commonly injured. These injuries can be debilitating if not treated correctly and can be both time-consuming and fraught with medicolegal risk. This article provides the necessary knowledge to diagnose and treat common hand and wrist injuries encountered in the emergency department.

Keywords: Carpal bones; Dislocation; Distal radius; Fracture; Orthopedics; Phalanx; Wrist injury.