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capitate fracture
A rare fracture of the largest carpal bone, often associated with scapholunate dissociation.
Full Definition
Capitate fractures are uncommon injuries representing less than 2% of all carpal fractures. The capitate is the largest carpal bone and articulates with multiple adjacent bones, making isolated fractures rare. These fractures often occur in association with other carpal injuries, particularly scapholunate dissociation, forming part of the greater arc injury pattern. The blood supply to the capitate enters distally, making proximal pole fractures prone to avascular necrosis similar to scaphoid fractures.
Usage
Usage note: Often part of complex injury patterns; assess for associated carpal ligament injuries.
In Context
- "MRI revealed a nondisplaced capitate fracture with early signs of avascular necrosis." — Radiology report
- "The patient sustained a capitate fracture as part of a greater arc injury pattern." — Emergency department note
Don't confuse with
hamate fracture
scaphoid fracture