Hamate and pisiform coalition: a case report and introduction to the carpal C-sign on lateral radiograph

Skeletal Radiol. 2017 May;46(5):693-699. doi: 10.1007/s00256-017-2593-x. Epub 2017 Feb 22.

Abstract

Hamate-pisiform coalition is an exceptional form of carpal coalition. Case reports are essential to gain a better understanding of this variant. We report a case of congenital bilateral hamate-pisiform coalition in a 20-year-old male discovered in the context of a right wrist trauma. Radiographs also revealed a bilateral scapholunate diastasis. Clinical examination and radiological findings suggested that the right wrist scapholunate diastasis was related to scapholunate instability. Left wrist scapholunate diastasis could be related to (1) a pathological feature or (2) a normal variant associated with hamate-pisiform coalition. Lateral radiographs showed a volar C-shaped osseous bridge corresponding to the coalition. We associated it with a new sign: the "carpal C-sign". Computed tomography with three-dimensional reconstruction provides helpful information about the type of coalition (osseous versus non-osseous) and excludes potential fracture. We discuss the specific embryologic features of the hamate-pisiform coalition, as well as its prevalence, radiographic classification, clinical significance, and treatment.

Keywords: Carpal C-sign; Coalition; Congenital variation; Hamate; Pisiform; Scapholunate instability.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Carpal Bones
  • Contrast Media
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Hamate Bone / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional / methods
  • Ligaments, Articular / diagnostic imaging
  • Ligaments, Articular / injuries*
  • Ligaments, Articular / surgery*
  • Male
  • Multidetector Computed Tomography / methods
  • Pisiform Bone / diagnostic imaging*
  • Radiographic Image Enhancement / methods
  • Radiography / methods
  • Wrist Injuries / diagnostic imaging*
  • Wrist Joint / diagnostic imaging
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Contrast Media