The wrist series is comprised of a posteroanterior, oblique, and lateral projection. The series examines the carpal bones that are consisting of the scaphoid, lunate, triquetrum, pisiform, trapezium, trapezoid, capitate and hamate. It also examines the radiocarpal and distal radioulnar joint along with the distal radius and ulna.
See approach to wrist series for more information.
Indications
Wrist x-rays are indicated for a variety of settings including:
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wrist trauma; see Amsterdam wrist rules
suspected fracture
obvious deformity
bony tenderness
non-traumatic deformity
Projections
Standard projections
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demonstrates the metacarpals, radius and ulna in the natural anatomical position
the best view to inspect the joint spaces of the carpal bones and the distal radio-ulnar joint
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external oblique projection of the wrist
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projection 90° to the PA view
demonstrates multiple carpal bones overlapping
the essential view to assessing the alignment of the radius, lunate, and capitate in the setting of a suspected dislocation
Modified trauma projections
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modified lateral projection that requires little to no patient movement
produces a diagnostic lateral projection without risking patient pain
Additional projections
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used to assess the dorsal aspect of the scaphoid, lunate and the triquetrum
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used for suspected scapholunate dissociation
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employed to examine the carpal bones at the ulnar aspect of the wrist
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