Real-colour sectioned images and their correspondence with ultrasound images of the dorsal wrist.

BACKGROUND

This study integrated high-resolution sectioned images withultrasound imaging to investigate the sequential anatomical transitions of the dorsa l wrist, with a particular focus on bony morphology and the positioning of extensor tendons.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

High-resolution real-colour sectioned images of the dorsal wrist were obtained from a 70-year-old male cadaver, and ultrasonographic images were acquired from a healthy 31-year-old female volunteer. Serial axial sectioned images at 1-mm intervals and corresponding transverse ultrasonographic images were analysed along the same proximodistal axis to assess changes in carpal bone morphology and associated shifts in extensor tendon trajectories. Notable patterns included the radial migration of the extensor pollicis longus tendon and the convergence of the extensor carpi ulnaris and extensor digiti minimi tendons.

RESULTS

These dynamic spatial relationships provide valuable clinical insights for differentiating normal anatomical variation from tendon displacement or injury. Sequential imaging demonstrated level-dependent changes in carpal bone morphology associated with characteristic shifts in extensor tendon trajectories, including radial migration of the extensor pollicis longus tendon and convergence of the extensor carpi ulnaris and extensor digiti minimi tendons.

CONCLUSIONS

The integration of detailed anatomical visualization with ultrasound assessment enhances diagnostic accuracy, facilitates safer minimally invasive procedures, and informs surgical planning for dorsal wrist pathologies.