Lunate bone

Lunate bone

The Lunate bone is one of the eight carpal bones that are found in the human hand. It is named for its crescent shape, with "lunate" derived from the Latin word "luna," meaning moon. The lunate bone is located in the proximal row of the carpal bones, between the scaphoid bone and the triquetral bone.

Structure

The lunate bone is a small, crescent-shaped bone that is situated in the center of the wrist. It has a convex upper surface that articulates with the radius bone in the forearm, and a concave lower surface that articulates with the capitate and hamate bones in the hand. The lunate bone is unique among the carpal bones in that it has no direct muscular attachments.

Function

The primary function of the lunate bone is to facilitate movement of the wrist. It acts as a pivot point for the wrist, allowing for flexion, extension, adduction, and abduction of the hand. The lunate bone also plays a crucial role in transmitting forces from the hand to the forearm.

Clinical significance

Injuries to the lunate bone, such as fractures or dislocations, can lead to a condition known as Kienbock's disease, which is characterized by the death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply. This condition can cause pain, swelling, and limited movement in the wrist.

See also

• Carpal bones
• Hand anatomy
• Kienbock's disease