Triquetral fracture
This patient fell off his push-bike and landed on his out-stretched hand. He presented with pain in his right wrist. Physical examination revealed slight swelling and tenderness over the ulnar border of his wrist. Antero-posterior and lateral radiographs of his wrist performed in AED did not reveal any fracture. He later had an oblique radiograph of his wrist in the fracture clinic which clearly showed a triquetral body fracture. His wrist was immobilized in a forearm plaster for 6 weeks and the fracture was united at 8 weeks.
Triquetral fractures are relatively uncommon. They are often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed as lunate fractures. They can occur as a result of a direct blow to the dorsum of the triquetrum. In a fall to the extended and ulnar deviated wrist, the dorsoproximal edge of the hamate can cause a chip fracture and a large ulnar styloid process can cause a compression fracture to the triquetrum. Clinical suspicion and a careful review of appropriate radiographs including an oblique view should avoid us missing the diagnosis.
Triquetral fracture
Based on the provided wrist X-ray, there appears to be a bony discontinuity or avulsion-type fragment on the dorsal aspect of the triquetrum, suggesting a possible triquetrum fracture. The fracture site on the dorsal side shows a small, irregular fragment of bone with altered density compared to the surrounding bone. No obvious fracture signs are noted in the adjacent carpal bones (e.g., lunate, pisiform), but further evaluation is recommended to accurately determine the extent of the fracture and to assess any soft tissue swelling or swelling shadows.
Taking into account the patient’s age (21 years), history of injury (fall or direct impact), and imaging findings (a dorsal bony fragment or cortical discontinuity in the triquetrum), the most likely diagnosis is a triquetrum fracture.
1. Treatment Strategy:
2. Rehabilitation and Exercise Prescription (FITT-VP Principle):
This report is for reference purposes only and does not replace an in-person consultation or the advice of a medical professional. If you have any concerns or experience any discomfort, please seek medical attention and follow the treatment plan recommended by your specialist.
Triquetral fracture