Trapezoid dislocation

Case contributed by Ian Bickle
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Awkward fall on hand with pain and swelling.

Patient Data

Age: 30
Gender: Male
x-ray

The trapezoid no longer appropropriately articulates with the capitate in the distal carpal row.

No fracture.

Annotated image

AP wrist view with comparative normal study (left) and trapezoid dislocation (right).

The circle indicated the dislocated trapezoid bone in the distal carpal row.

Case Discussion

Carpal bone dislocation is uncommon. Orthogonal views are essential in identifying carpal bone injuries.

Close assessment of the alignment of the carpal rows will reduce the chance of missing this important injury.

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