The radiocarpal joint capsule is the fibrous sleeve enclosing the radiocarpal joint, reinforced by the palmar and dorsal radiocarpal ligaments. It extends from the distal radius to the proximal carpal row.
| Origin | Margins of the distal radius and the triangular fibrocartilage |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Proximal carpal row (scaphoid, lunate and triquetrum) |
Encloses the radiocarpal joint, contains synovial fluid for lubrication, transmits load between the radius and proximal carpus, and is reinforced by the extrinsic carpal ligaments to provide constraint against carpal instability.
Radiocarpal capsular tear in distal radius fractures requires assessment, as associated capsular ligament injuries affect carpal alignment and stability. In a volar Barton fracture, the palmar rim of the radius shears off with the palmar capsule and ligaments, and the carpus subluxes palmarly with it until the fragment is fixed with a volar plate. Radiocarpal capsulotomy is performed in dorsal and volar wrist approaches for carpal ligament reconstruction and carpal fracture fixation.
Capsular ligament tear associated with distal radius fracture producing carpal malalignment, assessed intraoperatively and repaired when instability persists after radius fixation.
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