The carpals are the small bones that make up the wrist, situated between the forearm and the hand. They are distinct from the forearm and hand bones.

An adult human wrist has eight carpal bones arranged in two distinct rows. This is a fundamental fact in wrist anatomy.

The scaphoid is one of the eight carpal bones that make up the wrist. The other options represent bones from different parts of the body.

The carpal bones are situated in the wrist, forming the connection between the forearm and the hand. They play a key role in facilitating wrist movement and stability.

The scaphoid is the most commonly fractured carpal bone, largely because of its position and relatively precarious blood supply. Its fractures require careful diagnosis and management to prevent complications.

The proximal row of carpal bones consists of the scaphoid, lunate, triquetrum, and pisiform. This arrangement is essential for the mechanics and stability of the wrist.

The scaphoid is located in the proximal row of the carpal bones. Its position plays an important role in wrist mobility and the transmission of forces.

The pisiform is considered a sesamoid bone because it develops within a tendon. Its unique location in the proximal row distinguishes it from the other carpals.

The carpal bones are fundamental in transmitting and distributing forces from the hand to the forearm. They also provide structural support that enables a wide range of wrist movements.

The scapholunate ligament connects the scaphoid and lunate bones and is key to maintaining carpal stability. Damage to this ligament can lead to significant wrist instability.

The scaphoid and lunate are the two carpal bones that articulate directly with the distal radius. This articulation is vital for the effective transmission of mechanical loads during wrist movement.

The pisiform is located superficially on the palmar side of the wrist, making it easily palpable. Its distinct position aids in clinical examinations of the wrist.

Due to the scaphoid's limited blood supply, fractures can result in non-union or avascular necrosis. These complications necessitate careful monitoring and treatment.

The pisiform functions as a sesamoid bone, providing an important attachment for the flexor carpi ulnaris tendon. This enhances the muscle's leverage and contributes to effective wrist flexion.

The scaphoid is sometimes referred to as the navicular bone because its shape resembles that of a small boat or navicular. This distinct shape helps in its identification during anatomical studies.

The interlocking arrangement of the carpal bones, reinforced by strong ligaments, provides both stability and flexibility. This design allows the wrist to perform complex movements while maintaining structural integrity.

The dorsal intercarpal ligament is essential for linking the proximal and distal carpal rows. Its integrity ensures coordinated motion and stability throughout the wrist.

Perilunate dislocations most commonly occur due to forceful hyperextension of the wrist, often accompanied by ulnar deviation. This high-energy injury disrupts the normal alignment of the carpal bones.

MRI is highly sensitive for detecting occult scaphoid fractures that may not be visible on standard X-rays. Early detection with MRI is crucial to avoid complications such as avascular necrosis.

The scaphoid's blood supply enters from its distal pole in a retrograde fashion. This configuration makes the proximal fragment particularly vulnerable to avascular necrosis if a fracture disrupts blood flow.