Orthopedic pitfalls in the ED: Lunate and perilunate injuries

Occult dislocations at and around the lunate can accompany wrist trauma. When left unrecognized and untreated, these injuries lead to a high incidence of long-term functional disability and chronic pain. Emergency medicine practitioners need to be vigilant for both lunate and perilunate dislocations. This review article examines the clinical presentation, diagnostic techniques, and management options applicable to the emergency practitioner.