With the recent improvements in diagnosis and treatment of distal radius an
d carpal injuries, the hand surgeons' expectations of relevant radiologic i
nterpretation of imaging studies are heightened. Conventional radiographic
examinations, as well as more sophisticated and invasive studies, have impo
rtant roles in the evaluation of wrist fractures and dislocations. On the b
asis of physical examination results and the mechanism of injury, the onus
is on the examining surgeon to pinpoint potential sites of bone or ligament
disruption. After this evaluation, appropriate imaging studies appropriate
ly performed and interpreted will help direct treatment and improve outcome
with greater clarity and certainty.