Metacarpus

Metacarpus is the intermediate part of the hand located between the wrist which connects to the forearm and the phalanges (finger bones). It consists of five cylindrical bones which are numbered from one to five starting medially (thumb side) to laterally (little finger side).

Structure

The metacarpus forms the skeletal base of the hand that is located distal to the carpus and proximal to the phalanges. It is composed of five metacarpal bones which are numbered from the thumb side (radial or lateral side) towards the little finger (ulnar or medial side). Each metacarpal bone consists of three parts: the base, the shaft, and the head. The base articulates with the carpus, the shaft is prismoid in form and slightly curved, so as to be convex in the longitudinal direction, and the head articulates with the phalanges.

Function

The metacarpus serves as a flexible structure which allows the fingers and thumb to make a wide range of movements including flexion, extension, abduction, adduction and circumduction. It also provides support for the hand and acts as a shock absorber.

Clinical significance

Injuries to the metacarpus can include fractures and dislocations. Fractures of the metacarpal bones are common and can result in significant disability. Treatment may involve immobilization with a cast or splint, or surgery.

See also

• Carpus
• Phalanges
• Hand

References

Metacarpus Resources
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