Normal Variants of the Elbow
Olecranon Foramen aka Supratrochlear Foramen
Olecranon Foramen
Radioulnar Synostosis usually bilateral may decrease supination or pronation
Supracondylar Process An osseous projection on the anteromedial aspect of the distal humerus Struther’s ligamentStruther’s ligament may extend inferior from this process to the medial epicondyle may cause neurovascular signs or symptoms
Fracture of Supracondylar Process
Ununited Secondary Ossificatio n Center - Medial Epicondyle
Pseudotumor appearance of the Radial Tuberosity
The Wrist
Standard Wrist Series PA Wrist Medial Oblique Wrist Lateral Wrist
PA Wrist Note the overlap between the trapezium and the trapezoid
PA Wrist
Medial Oblique Wrist No overlap between the trapezium and the trapezoid
Lateral Wrist
- the third metacarpal, capitate, lunate and radius should form a straight line
Age of Carpal Appearance Capitate and Hamate:at birth-6 mo Triquetrum:.5 yr-3.5yrs Lunate: yrs Scaphoid:3-9yrs Trapezium:3-9yrs Trapezoid:3-9yrs Pisiform7-13yrs Distal radial epiphysis:.5-2yrs(19) Distal ulnar epiphysis: yrs(18)
Pronator Quadratus Fat Stripe Not visualized or may be displaced following trauma
Accessory Views of the Wrist
PA Wrist with Ulnar Deviation
Carpal Tunnel Projection
Three Arcs of Carpal Alignment Along proximal aspect of proximal row Along distal aspect of proximal row Along proximal aspect of distal row
Intercarpal Distances 2mmThe joint spaces between the carpal bones should not exceed 2mm 2mmthe distal radioulnar joint space should not exceed 2mm
Normal Variants
Carpal Coalition Fusion between the capitate and hamate possibly involving the triquetrum and pisiform
Carpal Coalition
Accessory Ossicle Distal to Ulna Ununited secondary ossification center of the ulnar styloid process. Most likely represents old un-united fracture.
Pie Sign
Negative Ulnar Variance 1-2mm shorterNormally the ulna should be no more than 1-2mm shorter than the radius predisposes lunate to avascular necrosis
Madelung’s Deformity Delayed growth of medial distal radius may result in a posterior subluxation of the ulna and the “bayonette” appearance. Carpal angle >117°.
Madelung’s Deformity
Thank You