Anatomic and X-ray film studies of the distal articular surface of the radius

Knowledge of the surgical and topographic anatomy of the distal articular surface of the radius is valuable during diagnostic and operative procedures involving the distal radius. The aim of this study is to assist the surgeon in determining the location, displacement, and angulation of acute or healed distal radius articular fractures. Measurements were taken of the distal articular surface of 50 dry radii. Also, the margins and surfaces of the distal articular surface of 12 adult cadaver radii were marked by solder and radiopaque dye, respectively. X-ray films were then taken to define the margins and bony landmarks. The lunate facet surface area (53%) was found to be slightly larger than the scaphoid facet surface area (47%). Both the palmar tilt and the radial inclination were demonstrated on the marked x-ray films. Using the 30 degrees cephalad angled anteroposterior projection of the distal radius can help assess the dorsomedial fragment of the lunate fossa in a die-punch fracture.