What structures are found on the front of the wrist, from lateral to medial?

From lateral (thumb side) to medial (little finger side), the key structures are: radial artery, tendon of flexor carpi radialis (FCR), tendon of palmaris longus, flexor digitorum superficialis tendons, ulnar artery, ulnar nerve, and tendon of flexor carpi ulnaris. The median nerve lies deep to the palmaris longus tendon, just above the carpal tunnel.

Where is the median nerve located in relation to the wrist structures?

The median nerve is positioned deep to the palmaris longus tendon, just proximal to the carpal tunnel. This placement makes it vulnerable in deep wrist injuries.

Why is knowledge of wrist anatomy important in emergency situations like wrist lacerations?

Understanding the arrangement of structures helps prevent damage to vital neurovascular and tendinous components during treatment. Deep cuts can cause severe bleeding, nerve damage (e.g., median or ulnar neuropathy), and loss of hand function, requiring prompt surgical care.

What structures are at risk in a deep laceration on the radial side of the wrist?

Injuries on the radial side (lateral) can affect, from lateral to medial: radial artery, flexor carpi radialis tendon, palmaris longus tendon, flexor digitorum superficialis tendons, and median nerve. Damage here may lead to bleeding and functional impairment.

What structures are at risk in a deep laceration on the ulnar side of the wrist?

Injuries on the ulnar side (medial) can affect, from medial to lateral: flexor carpi ulnaris tendon, ulnar nerve, and ulnar artery. This can result in issues like ulnar neuropathy and vascular compromise.

What are the clinical implications of damaging the ulnar nerve or artery at the wrist?

Damage to the ulnar nerve can cause ulnar neuropathy, leading to sensory and motor deficits in the hand. Injury to the ulnar artery may result in significant bleeding and reduced blood flow to the medial hand.

Anterior Wrist Anatomy – Tendons, Nerves & Arteries