Delayed identification of an isolated paediatric capitate fracture

Fractures of the capitate bone are the second most common injury to a child's wrist but are rarely encountered in isolation. This is reflected in the paucity of described cases in the literature. Their true incidence is unknown as they often do not appear on plain radiographs and may heal without immobilisation. The easiest way to detect these fractures is with an MRI scan. The authors present a rare case of isolated capitate fracture that was initially missed on plain films. This case is important as it highlights the need for a high index of suspicion in paediatric patients with unresolving wrist pain.