Triquetrum Fracture. Triquetrum fractures are common carpal fractures that are often associated with other injuries to the wrist. Diagnosis is confirmed with orthogonal views of the wrist. Treatment is generally nonoperative but injuries associated with wrist instability require surgical fixation.
How do you break a triquetral bone?
The triquetral may be fractured by means of impingement from the ulnar styloid, shear forces, or avulsion from strong ligamentous attachments. They are the second commonest carpal bone fracture, after the scaphoid. The usual injury mechanism is falling onto an outstretched hand in ulnar deviation.
Are Triquetral fractures common in ulnar-sided wrist pain?
Summary While less common than scaphoid fractures, triquetral fractures should remain in the differential diagnosis for patients with ulnar-sided wrist pain after falling on an outstretched hand.
How long does it take for a Triquetral fracture to heal?
A triquetral fracture is a common type of wrist injury. Depending on the severity of the fracture, you’ll need anywhere from a month to a year to heal. While many make a full recovery, some notice lingering stiffness in their hand or wrist. Last medically reviewed on May 10, 2018
How many facets does the triquetrum have?
The triquetrum has three facets for articulation with adjacent carpal bones. The flat facet on the ulnar surface of the triquetrum articulates with the lunate, the concave facet on the distal surface articulates with the hamate, and the oval facet on the volar surface articulates with the pisiform [1].
What is the triquetral ossification center?
The triquetral ossification center often precedes the lunate 1 . From the Latin “triquetrus” meaning “having three corners”. It was originally termed the “cuneiform” bone, when named by Lyser in 1653. It was first called the “triquetrum” by Albinus in 1726.
Isolated Triquetral fractures tend to heal well with immobilization. The wrist is placed in a cast for approximately 6 weeks so the bone can heal. After this period, the cast is removed and wrist exercises to regain full movement and strength at the wrist should be performed.
