the rights of translation, reprinting, reuse of illustrations, recitation, broadcasting, reproduction on microfilms or in any other physical way, and transmission or information storage and retrieval, electronic adaptation, computer software, or by similar or dissimilar methodology now known or hereafter developed. The use of general descriptive names, registered names, trademarks, service marks, etc. in this publication does not imply, even in the absence of a specific statement, that such names are exempt from the relevant protective laws and regulations and therefore free for general use. The publisher, the authors, and the editors are safe to assume that the advice and information in this book are believed to be true and accurate at the date of publication. Neither the publisher nor the authors or the editors give a warranty, expressed or implied, with respect to the material contained herein or for any errors or omissions that may have been made. The publisher remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

No abstract

No abstract

In this section we will revise the anatomy and function of the structures making up the hand. The structures that we need to consider are the bones and the joints, the ligaments that stabilise the joints, the muscles and tendons that move them, the nerves that make everything work and the blood supply of the hand. 2.1Bones and Joints The Carpals, Metacarpals and Phalanges CarpusThere are eight carpal bones which lie in two rows (Fig. 2.1 showing the right hand) [1]. Starting with the distal row at the hamate (the most medial bone of the distal row) and moving clockwise, the bones are the hamate, capitate, trapezoid and trapezium and, the proximal row, scaphoid, lunate, triquetrum and pisiform. And one of the few mnemonics that medical students learn that can be repeated in public:'Hamlet Came To Town, Shouting Loudly To Polonius'

Inflammation/small tears of the attachment of the extensor tendons to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus. Extensor carpi radialis brevis is the most common tendon involved.