Presentation Format: Educational poster presentation.
Purpose or Learning Objective: To (1) recognize the importance of correct assessment of wrist fractures; (2) describe
the heterogeneous group of injuries related to wrist fractures; (3) illustrate the
imaging features of the different wrist fractures in plain radiography, computed tomography
(CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); and (4) correlate the imaging findings
for each fracture with the mechanism of injury, anatomy, and treatment implications.
Methods or Background: Wrist fractures are frequently seen in the everyday practice of a musculoskeletal
radiologist. Imaging assessment of wrist fractures is an essential tool, in conjunction
with a thorough clinical history and physical examination, to provide a definitive
diagnosis and staging. The wrist is composed of osseous structures (distal radius
and ulna, proximal and distal carpal row, and proximal metacarpal bones) and the extrinsic/intrinsic
ligaments between them. The relationship between the anatomy and the mechanism of
injury is critical to understand the different types of fractures usually seen in
the wrist.
Results or Findings: This pictorial review addresses theoretical concepts and illustrates the radiologic
findings of the various wrist fractures, with emphasis on plain radiography, CT, and
MRI. Radiography is normally used for the initial evaluation and sometimes a definitive
diagnosis. It is also the primary modality for the evaluation of healing. For staging
and for a more detailed characterization of osseous or soft tissue injuries, CT and
MRI are useful imaging techniques.
Conclusion: Imaging provides crucial information in the management of wrist fractures, determining
the type and fracture staging (classification) and possible complications. Thus imaging
is the basis for the correct management of wrist fractures.
