[Computerized tomography of the hand: examination technic, normal anatomy, indications].

The results of 480 computed tomograms carried out in the hand are presented. The digital slice imaging technique shows following advantages: a) Imaging of the complex carpus without superimposition giving a better understanding of carpal biomechanics. b) Anatomically exact imaging of the soft tissues determined by density analysis. In the following states relevant information can be obtained by CT of the hand: 1. Posttraumatic states of the carpus such as scaphoid non-union, lunato-malacia in stages I and II, complex fracture dislocations, and carpal instabilities; 2. cystic transformation of the bone; 3. non-idiopathic CTS; 4. clinically unequivocal soft-tissue masses. In our institution conventional tomography has been largely replaced by carpal CT within a progressive diagnostic programme. Today CT is the best method for imaging soft-tissue masses of the hand.