How Do Doctors Detect Carpal Fractures?

Published: Jan 09, 2024

Identifying carpal fractures involves a series of tests and imaging techniques. Learn how doctors diagnose these tricky injuries.
Contents

The Role of X-Rays

X-rays are the first step in diagnosing carpal fractures. While helpful, they often miss many fractures, necessitating further testing if symptoms persist.

Advanced Imaging Techniques

When X-rays are inconclusive, doctors turn to CT scans or MRIs, which provide detailed images of the bones and any potential fractures.
A carpal fracture is a break in one or more of the eight small bones that make up the wrist. Diagnosing these fractures can involve X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs.

The Use of Ultrasound

Ultrasound can be a valuable tool in skilled hands, offering a non-invasive way to detect fractures and assess soft tissue injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions

X-rays can miss many carpal fractures.

Doctors use CT or MRI for more detailed images.

Yes, it's useful in skilled hands for detecting fractures.

Key Insights

Advanced imaging is often necessary for accurate fracture detection.
Unsure about your wrist diagnosis? Discuss imaging options with Doctronic, the AI doctor!

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References

  1. Welling RD, Jacobson JA, Jamadar DA, et al. MDCT and radiography of wrist fractures: radiographic sensitivity and fracture patterns. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2008; 190:10.
  2. Murthy NS, Ringler MD. MR Imaging of Carpal Fractures. Magn Reson Imaging Clin N Am 2015; 23:405.

This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.

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