[Radiological procedures in the traumatised wrist]

Injuries of the wrist are difficult to diagnose because of the complex and narrow anatomic structures. On the basis of precise clinical examination, X-rays, CT and MRI are valuable additional tools that can be used. In the case of bone injury, spiral computer tomography with multiplanar reformatting is currently the method of choice. MRI is indicated for the identification of soft tissue or ligamentous injury and avital fragments or necrosis. Other diagnostic tools for the wrist are currently of minor importance. Technical and methodological innovations allow ever better visualisation and classification of lesions, as well as their extent, thus enabling more targeted therapy. However, prerequisites of effective use include differential assessment and precise knowledge of the procedures.