Diagnosis and management of acute fracture-dislocation of the carpus.

Acute fracture-dislocations of the carpus are uncommon. If treated inadequately, however, these injuries can lead to wrist pain and dysfunction as a result of progressive traumatic arthritis. Accurate diagnosis and early intervention are essential for optimal recovery. This article presents the anatomy, epidemiology, and mechanisms of injury of the carpus and the diagnosis, treatment, and treatment results of dislocation of the carpus.