What is the most commonly fractured carpal?

• A. Scaphoid
• B. Lunate
• C. Triquetrum
• D. Capitate

Answer: (A)

The most commonly fractured carpal bone is the scaphoid. This is primarily due to its location and the mechanism of injury typically involved, such as falling onto an outstretched hand. The scaphoid is positioned at the base of the thumb and plays a crucial role in wrist stability and motion. Its unique anatomical positioning also makes it more susceptible to injury compared to the other carpal bones.

When a person suffers a fall, the force often travels through the wrist and impacts the scaphoid directly, which can lead to a fracture. Additionally, the blood supply to the scaphoid is predominantly from one end, which can complicate healing if a fracture occurs, leading to a higher clinical significance of scaphoid fractures.

In contrast, the lunate, triquetrum, and capitate are fractured less frequently—typically associated with different types of injuries or stress. The lunate, while also involved in wrist function, is less often fractured as it is less exposed and impacted than the scaphoid. The triquetrum and capitate, being other carpal bones, do not carry the same incidence of fractures due to their locations and structural anatomy.

Thus, the prevalence of scaphoid fractures in clinical practice makes