Third metacarpal styloid process
Anatomical feature of the human hand
| Latin | processus styloideus ossis metacarpi tertii |
|---|---|
| Precursor | Mesoderm |
| System | Skeletal |
The third metacarpal styloid process is a bony prominence located at the base of the third metacarpal bone in the human hand. It serves as an important anatomical landmark and plays a crucial role in the attachment of ligaments and tendons that contribute to the stability and function of the hand.
Anatomy[edit | edit source]
The third metacarpal styloid process is situated on the dorsal aspect of the base of the third metacarpal bone. It is a small, pointed projection that extends proximally towards the wrist. This process is unique to the third metacarpal and is not present on the other metacarpals.
Relations[edit | edit source]
The third metacarpal styloid process is closely associated with the capitate bone, which is the largest of the carpal bones and articulates with the base of the third metacarpal. The process provides an attachment point for the extensor carpi radialis brevis tendon, which is involved in the extension and abduction of the wrist.
Function[edit | edit source]
The primary function of the third metacarpal styloid process is to serve as an attachment site for ligaments and tendons. This includes the attachment of the extensor carpi radialis brevis tendon, which plays a role in wrist movement. The presence of the styloid process enhances the mechanical leverage of these tendons, contributing to the dexterity and strength of the hand.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
Injuries to the third metacarpal styloid process are relatively rare but can occur due to trauma or overuse. Fractures of the styloid process may result from direct impact or excessive force applied to the hand. Such injuries can lead to pain, swelling, and impaired hand function. Treatment typically involves immobilization, and in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to restore proper alignment and function.
Also see[edit | edit source]
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
