carpalia

Carpalia is a term occasionally used in anatomical literature to refer to the carpal bones that form the wrist. Derived from the Latin carpus, the word carpalia denotes the eight small bones that constitute the wrist in humans and many other tetrapods. In modern anatomical writing, the preferred term is carpal bones, and carpalia is generally considered historical or less common.

The eight carpalia are organized into two transverse rows. The proximal row comprises the scaphoid, lunate, triquetrum, and pisiform, while the distal row consists of the trapezium, trapezoid, capitate, and hamate. These bones are arranged to articulate with the radius and ulna at the radiocarpal joint and with the bases of the metacarpal bones to form the carpometacarpal joints, along with intercarpal articulations that contribute to wrist stability.

Functionally, the carpalia provide a compact yet highly flexible platform for wrist movement. Their arrangement allows flexion, extension, and radial and ulnar deviation, enabling a wide range of hand positions and contributing to grip strength and dexterity. The complex ligamentous support surrounding the carpalia helps stabilize the wrist during motion and load bearing.

Developmentally, ossification centers appear during childhood and typically complete in adolescence. Clinically, injuries to the carpalia, particularly fractures of the scaphoid, are common wrist injuries and require careful imaging and management due to potential complications such as delayed healing or avascular necrosis. Other conditions affecting the carpalia include carpal instability and osteoarthritis; disorders like carpal tunnel syndrome involve nerves in the region but are not carpalian fractures per se.

See also: carpus, carpal bones, radiocarpal joint.