Wrist
From Ganfyd
- This page refers to the wrist joint. For the wrist region, see wrist (region).
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| Search for Wrist in Gray's. | |
The wrist (wrist joint, radiocarpal joint) is the articulation between two surfaces, one formed by the distal radius and triangular articular disc of the wrist, the other by the proximal row of the carpal bones.
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Surface Anatomy
Much of the surface anatomy of the wrist joint is that of its bones, see:
The joint can be traced as a slightly convex line joining the radial and ulnar styloid processes.
Components
- Radius
- Triangular articular disc
- Ulna
- Scaphoid
- Lunate
- Triquetral
- Interosseous ligaments of the carpal bones
Structure
The distal surfaces of the radius and triangular articular disc are concave transversely; this may be marred by several ridges. The proximal surfaces of the proximal row of carpal bones and their interosseous ligaments are convex, articulating with the concavity of the disc and radius.
The fibrous capsule of the wrist is strengthened by the various ligaments of the joint. A synovial membrane lines the inside of the capsule, usually separate from that of the intercarpal and distal radioulnar joint, but often extending as a prestyloid recess over the anterior disc and close to the ulnar styloid. Distal to the recess is a fibrocartilagenous meniscus, which separates the ulnar styloid and triquetral.
Ligaments
- Palmar radiocarpal ligament
- Palmar ulnocarpal ligament
- Dorsal radiocarpal ligament
- Ulnar collateral carpal ligament
- Radial collateral carpal ligament
Movements
See wrist (region)
Variations
The meniscus may occasionally ossify.
Clinical Relevance
- Commonly affected in rheumatoid arthritis
- May be affected by osteoarthritis
