Surgical Approaches to the Carpus

The current surgical approaches to the carpus and the distal radioulnar joint are presented in this article. Although there are multiple modifications of these exposures that continue to evolve, the basics principles of the exposures are important to remember. As much as possible, ligament-sparing approaches should be used to minimize potential problems related to postoperative carpal instability and scarring, which may limit motion. Familiarity with these approaches, and more important, the anatomy of the carpus and surrounding tissues, will allow the surgeon to access virtually any part of the wrist.