Clinical Approach to the Painful Wrist

Abstract

Wrist arthroscopy has continued to develop as both a diagnostic and therapeutic tool since its introduction over 40 years ago. The anatomy of the wrist is complex with important neurovascular structures. Specific portals are utilized to allow for safe entry to the wrist joint. Wet arthroscopy and dry arthroscopy are used to treat a variety of pathology including triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) pathology, carpal instability, distal radius fractures, scaphoid fractures, wrist arthritis, to name but a few. Indications are continually increasing with the support of the ever expanding evidence base. As with any new procedure, wrist arthroscopy has its own set of complications.