Karpalët

Karpalët, also known as carpal bones, are a group of eight small bones located in the wrist, forming the carpus. These bones are arranged in two rows and serve as a crucial structural component that connects the hand to the forearm. The carpal bones facilitate a wide range of movements of the wrist, including flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction.

The eight carpal bones are classified into two rows: the proximal row and the distal row. The proximal row, situated closer to the forearm, includes the scaphoid, lunate, triquetrum, and pisiform bones. The distal row comprises the trapezium, trapezoid, capitate, and hamate bones. Among these, the scaphoid and lunate are the most involved in wrist articulation, supporting movement and load transfer.

These bones are connected by ligaments that provide stability and allow for complex motions. The carpal bones also serve as attachment points for muscles and tendons involved in wrist and hand movements. Due to their small size and complex articulations, the carpal bones are susceptible to injuries such as fractures (notably the scaphoid fracture) and ligament tears, which can impair wrist function.

In addition to their biomechanical function, the carpal bones play a significant role in clinical diagnosis. Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, involving compression of the median nerve through the carpal tunnel, illustrate the importance of understanding carpal anatomy. Overall, the carpal bones are essential for wrist mobility and hand dexterity, making their understanding vital in both anatomy and medicine.