Triquetral fracture

Anatomy and Functional Imaging 28.04.2006
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Section: Musculoskeletal system
Case Type: Anatomy and Functional Imaging
Patient: 21 years, male
Authors: Chee Y, Khan MG
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Details
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AI Report

Clinical History

Triquetral fracture

Imaging Findings

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.

Discussion

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.

Differential Diagnosis List

Triquetral fracture

Final Diagnosis

Triquetral fracture

Liscense

Figures

Oblique view showing an isolated triquetral fracture

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Oblique view showing an isolated triquetral fracture