Citation

Franssen NT, Carpenter RJ, Stuart SM. Mil. Med. 2019; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Affiliation

Surgeon-13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, Combat Trauma Research Group, Oceanside, CA 92058.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, Association of Military Surgeons of the United States)

DOI

10.1093/milmed/usz365

PMID

31665415

Abstract

Wrist pain commonly affects military members and while most instances are benign, some require urgent orthopedic attention to prevent permanent loss of function. A 27-year-old male Marine while deployed presented with wrist pain after a seemingly benign fall during recreation. Radiographs were initially read as unremarkable and treated as a sprain. Though when reviewed by the Shock Trauma Platoon physicians, a perilunate dislocation was noted. After unsuccessful closed attempts to reduce injury, the Marine was sent to orthopedic surgery and underwent open reduction internal fixation and required a subsequent closed reduction and percutaneous pinning. Perilunate dislocations are uncommon but are among the most severe types of wrist injuries. This case is a reminder that proper evaluation of all injuries is critical. Proper evaluation of wrist injuries includes an attentive physical exam and careful examination of the radiographs; paying close attention to Gilula arcs and collinearity of the radius, lunate, and capitate. Prompt recognition and referral to specialty care for definitive treatment are important to maximize functional outcomes.

© Association of Military Surgeons of the United States 2019. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Language: en