Trapezoid bone

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia

Bone of the human wrist



The trapezoid bone, also known as the lesser multangular bone, is one of the eight carpal bones of the wrist. It is located in the distal row of carpal bones and is the smallest bone in this row. The trapezoid bone is situated between the trapezium bone and the capitate bone, and it articulates with the second metacarpal bone.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The trapezoid bone is wedge-shaped and has four articular surfaces. The superior surface is concave and articulates with the scaphoid bone. The inferior surface is convex and articulates with the base of the second metacarpal bone. The lateral surface articulates with the trapezium bone, and the medial surface articulates with the capitate bone.

The dorsal and palmar surfaces of the trapezoid bone are rough for the attachment of ligaments. The bone is surrounded by a fibrous capsule that is part of the wrist joint complex.

Function[edit | edit source]

The trapezoid bone plays a crucial role in the stability and movement of the wrist. It helps to form the carpal arch, which is important for the passage of tendons and the median nerve through the carpal tunnel. The articulation with the second metacarpal bone allows for the movement of the index finger.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Injuries to the trapezoid bone are rare but can occur due to trauma or repetitive stress. Fractures of the trapezoid bone can lead to pain and limited movement in the wrist. Diagnosis is typically made through X-ray or MRI imaging.

Gallery[edit | edit source]

Related pages[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

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

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 The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes.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, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD