Wrist: coronal and transaxial CT scanning.

Computed tomography (CT) of the wrist can be useful in selected clinical applications and is generally performed in the transaxial orientation. Coronal and transaxial CT scanning of the wrist were directly compared in three patients and in a normal, isolated cadaveric hand. Twenty other patients with wrist problems who underwent only transaxial or coronal CT examinations were also considered to assess the clinical indications of both techniques. A simple Lucite holder was designed and tested to simplify patient positioning with the coronal CT technique. In most clinical situations, coronal images were superior to transaxial images because the former were more detailed and easier to interpret. In some specific cases, however, especially fracture of the hamate hook and distal radioulnar subluxation, transaxial CT scanning was superior.