Wrist Capsule Dorsal Ligaments

capsula articularis radiocarpalis — ligamenta dorsalia

The dorsal wrist capsular ligaments are the reinforcing bands on the dorsal aspect of the radiocarpal joint capsule, including the dorsal radiotriquetral and dorsal intercarpal ligaments, providing dorsal wrist constraint.

Region: Forearm

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Resist volar carpal displacement, limit excessive wrist flexion, provide the dorsal constraint of the radiocarpal and intercarpal articulations, and are the restraints disrupted in dorsal wrist ganglion formation.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Dorsal wrist ganglions arise from the dorsal scapholunate ligament region between the radiotriquetral and intercarpal ligaments — the capsular defect through which the ganglion herniates. Arthroscopic dorsal capsular resection combined with ganglion excision reduces recurrence.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Dorsal Wrist Ganglion from Capsular Defect

Synovial herniation through a defect in the dorsal radiocarpal capsular ligaments producing a dorsal wrist ganglion, treated by aspiration or excision with capsular defect repair.

Dorsal Capsular Injury in Wrist Fracture-Dislocation

Dorsal capsular ligament disruption in trans-scaphoid perilunate dislocation requiring anatomic repair of the dorsal restraints as part of ligament reconstruction.