Carpal instability

A great deal of progress has been made in recent years with respect to understanding the normal and pathologic anatomy of the wrist. Nonetheless, our knowledge is incomplete, so there still is room for diversity of opinion regarding the diagnosis and treatment of most of the presently recognized wrist instabilities. A careful history and physical examination combined with a critical review of the standard radiographs, supplemented by additional studies as indicated, allow the astute clinician to identify specific patterns of instability and to formulate an effective treatment program for the patient.