Capsular attachment to the distal radius for extracapsular placement of pins

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anatomy of the wrist joint capsul e on the distal radius. As, such the extent of the joint capsule and the li mits of attachment in relation to the articular surface were determined. Fu rthermore, the study also determined whether there was any reflection of th e capsule onto the distal radius. Fifty cadaveric specimens, preserved acco rding to Thiel's; method, were assessed. After careful dissection the dista nce between the chondral line of the carpal articular surface and three def ined points on each of the palmar and dorsal aspects of the radius were mea sured. In none of the specimens was there any variation in the course and e xtent of the joint capsule. Using external fixators for managing fractures of the distal radius, pins and wires can be placed subchondrally close to t he articular capsule. The risk of intraarticular infection, due to pin trac t infection in intraarticularly positioned pins, is very low.