Management of wrist injuries.
OBJECTIVE
After studying this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Understand the anatomy and the biomechanical properties of the wrist. 2. Understand the standard examination process for wrist injuries. 3. Accurately diagnose common wrist conditions. 4. Establish a management plan for wrist problems.


BACKGROUND
Although common, wrist injuries and conditions are difficult to treat if the physician is unfamiliar with their management.


METHODS
Wrist anatomy and kinematics are discussed. Physical and radiographic examinations that are mandatory for diagnosing wrist conditions are presented. Common wrist injuries are reviewed.


RESULTS
Understanding the anatomy and kinematics of the wrist is important in diagnosing and treating wrist conditions and in predicting outcomes after treatment. Physical examination of the wrist requires an understanding of the surface anatomy and a number of specific maneuvers. Physicians should also be familiar with other diagnostic tests, which include radiography, arthrography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and arthroscopy.


CONCLUSIONS
Physicians who treat wrist injuries should be able to establish an adequate management plan for common wrist injuries and conditions and be able to predict outcomes based on these treatment plans.
Kawamura
Kenji
K
Ann Arbor, Mich. From the Section of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Health System.
Chung
Kevin C
KC
D001175:Arthrography; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D002348:Carpal Bones / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D008023:Ligaments, Articular / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D012667:Lunate Bone / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology; D010020:Osteonecrosis / Q000601:surgery; D010808:Physical Examination; D021361:Scaphoid Bone / Q000293:injuries; D014953:Wrist / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D014954:Wrist Injuries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*