title: [Fractures of carpal bones].
abstract: Fractures of the carpal bones are uncommon. On standard radiographs fractures are often not recognized and a computed tomography (CT) scan is the diagnostic method of choice. The aim of treatment is to restore pain-free and full functioning of the hand. A distinction is made between stable and unstable carpal fractures. Stable non-displaced fractures can be treated conservatively. Unstable and displaced fractures have an increased risk of arthritis and non-union and should be stabilized by screws or k‑wires. If treated adequately, fractures of the carpal bones have a good prognosis. Unstable and dislocated fractures have an increased risk for non-union. The subsequent development of carpal collapse with arthrosis is a severe consequence of non-union, which has a heterogeneous prognosis.
authors.affiliation: Klinik für Unfall- und Handchirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Moorenstraße 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Deutschland. tim.loegters@med.uni-duesseldorf.de.
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Lögters
authors.affiliation: Klinik für Unfall- und Handchirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Moorenstraße 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Deutschland.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Windolf
mesh_terms: D001863:Bone Screws; D001864:Bone Wires; D002348:Carpal Bones / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery*; D000072039:Fracture Dislocation / Q000145:classification / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000601:surgery*; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000379:methods*; D005599:Fractures, Ununited / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D010003:Osteoarthritis / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D012307:Risk Factors; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed
keywords: Arthritis; Carpal; Dislocations; Osteosynthesis; Scaphoid