Isolated Triquetrum Fractures: The Importance of Proper Roentgenograms in Ulnar Sided Wrist Pain

Abstract

Triquetrum fractures are the second most common carpal fractures after scaphoid. However they are seldom encountered due to their clinical symptoms and since they cause less functional disability. They can be misdiagnosed as soft-tissue injuries by considering the similar localization of pain and prolonged symptoms. The majority of triquetrum fractures can be diagnosed with direct X-ray. Obtaining three plane (anterior-posterior, lateral and oblique) X-rays is especially important in diagnosing dorsal chip fractures. Accurate diagnosis provides both controlling the symptoms with adequate immobilization, sufficient information of the patient in the acute period and preventing unnecessary diagnostic work up in the subacute period because of prolonged discomfort. In our study, fifteen patients with isolated triquetrum fractures admitted within six year period were presented with their clinical, radiological features and treatment outcomes.

Intra-articular Fracture of the Distal part of the Triquetrum within the Pisotriquetral Joint: Case Report and Review of Literature

“…However, Welling et al . [ 19 ] found that 20% of triquetral fractures were hidden on plain radiographs whereas Ozdemir et al [ 20 ] and Beccet et al [ 14 ] highlighted the role of oblique views plus CT and MRI scans in contrast for proper diagnosis. In our case, the standard views pointed out the presence of a triquetrum fracture and the subsequent CT scan revealed this uncommon pattern.…”

“…Dorsal chips that remain symptomatic for a long period can be excised surgically [ 21 ]. Undisplaced, body fractures, can be treated conservatively with cast immobilization [ 20 ]; in cases of marked displacement open reduction and internal fixation with a compression screw and/or Kirschner wires may be required [ 6 , 22 ]. Non-union is rare but can be successfully treated with late ORIF [ 23 ].…”