The common clinical problem of carpal instability is often difficult to diagnose with
the precision necessary to confidently direct appropriate treatment. The role of magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI) in the evaluation of carpal instabilities is evolving but
remains problematic. Finding solutions to these problems is contingent upon both the
imaging specialist and clinician appreciating the full scope and clinical implications
of the mechanical and kinematic complexity inherent in the anatomic design of the
carpus. Providing specifics about the clinical questions that arise with various carpal
instabilities serves to highlight the challenges facing current imaging technology,
and provides a framework that supports the argument for the development of dynamic
MRI as one-and perhaps the only-truly satisfactory solution to this problem.
Magnetic resonant imaging - wrist - carpal - instability - kinematics - biomechanics
- injury
