Tag Archives: scaphoid

Wrist PA
4
Feb

Overview

The PA wrist radiograph evaluates carpal bones distal radius and ulna for fractures and degenerative change. The patient places the palm flat on the detector with the wrist in neutral. This view is the foundation for wrist imaging and guides further projections.

Technique

Center the detector to the mid carpal region and ensure the wrist is flat without rotation. Use appropriate collimation to include the distal forearm and proximal metacarpals. Immobilize the hand to reduce motion artifact.

Clinical Indications

PA wrist is indicated for trauma pain and suspected scaphoid or distal radius fractures. It assesses carpal alignment and joint space narrowing. Additional oblique and lateral views complement the PA projection.

Image Assessment

Inspect cortical margins for fracture lines and evaluate carpal spacing and alignment. Look for signs of scapholunate dissociation and degenerative changes. Recommend targeted views or CT for occult injuries.

Wrist Scaphoid View
4
Feb

Overview

The scaphoid view positions the wrist in ulnar deviation to elongate the scaphoid and improve fracture detection. It is obtained when scaphoid injury is suspected despite normal standard views. Early detection prevents non union and long term dysfunction.

Technique

Ask the patient to ulnar deviate the wrist and center the detector to the scaphoid waist. Use a slight cranial tube angle if needed to profile the scaphoid. Immobilize the wrist and minimize motion during exposure.

Clinical Indications

Scaphoid view is indicated for snuffbox tenderness and suspected scaphoid fracture. It complements PA and lateral views and may be followed by dedicated CT or MRI if radiographs are inconclusive. Early immobilization is recommended when clinical suspicion is high.

Image Assessment

Inspect the scaphoid waist and proximal pole for cortical disruption and sclerosis. Evaluate for associated radial styloid fractures and carpal instability. Report findings and recommend further imaging if needed.

Scaphoid Axial View
4
Feb

Overview

The axial scaphoid view images the scaphoid in a different plane to better visualize the proximal pole and waist. It is obtained with specialized positioning to elongate the scaphoid. This view aids in detecting fractures that may be occult on standard projections.

Technique

Position the wrist in ulnar deviation and apply a specific tube angle to project the scaphoid axially. Center to the scaphoid and use tight collimation for detail. Immobilize the wrist to minimize motion artifact.

Clinical Indications

Axial scaphoid views are indicated when standard scaphoid projections are inconclusive and clinical suspicion remains high. They help detect proximal pole fractures and guide immobilization decisions. MRI or CT is used for definitive diagnosis when radiographs are negative.

Image Assessment

Inspect the scaphoid waist and proximal pole for cortical disruption and sclerosis. Evaluate for associated radial styloid fractures and carpal instability. Report findings and recommend advanced imaging if needed.