Os carpale II (C2)
The second carpal bone (C2) is a small bone in the distal row of the carpus, on the medial side. It articulates proximally with the radial carpal bone and distally with the second metacarpal (medial splint) bone. It is part of the complex carpal joint that allows the knee to absorb concussion and transfer weight.
Isolated injury is uncommon. Relevant in evaluations of carpal fractures or chip fractures that may involve adjacent bones. Diagnosis is radiographic.
## Overview Uncommon fractures are those seen infrequently in clinical practice. Diagnosis relies on a high index of suspicion and appropriate imaging. Management follows standard orthopedic principl
## Overview Osteoarthritis of the carpometacarpal joint is degenerative joint disease of the lower knee joint. It is less common than middle-carpal osteoarthritis but causes similar signs of knee swe
Carpal swelling or lameness after fast work should be evaluated promptly.
## Overview Uncommon fractures are those seen infrequently in clinical practice. Diagnosis relies on a high index of suspicion and appropriate imaging. Management follows standard orthopedic principles for the bone involved. ## Causes Trauma or fatigue in atypical locations. ## Diagnosis Radiographs or advanced imaging. ## Treatment Rest, external support, or internal fixation as indicated. ## Recovery and Prognosis Variable. ## Prevention Risk management appropriate to the horse’s use. Signs include: acute or subacute lameness; swelling; radiographic fracture in an uncommon location
## Overview Osteoarthritis of the carpometacarpal joint is degenerative joint disease of the lower knee joint. It is less common than middle-carpal osteoarthritis but causes similar signs of knee swelling, reduced flexion, and lameness that worsens with work. Radiographs show joint-space narrowing and osteophytes. ## Causes Repetitive loading, previous injury, or conformational stress. ## Diagnosis Lameness examination, diagnostic analgesia, and radiographs. ## Treatment Intra-articular medication, systemic anti-inflammatories, and workload adjustment. ## Recovery and Prognosis Fair. Management is ongoing. ## Prevention Sensible training and early treatment of joint inflammation. Signs include: carpal swelling; lameness worse after work; reduced carpal flexion; radiographic osteoarthritis
Isolated injury is uncommon. Relevant in evaluations of carpal fractures or chip fractures that may involve adjacent bones. Diagnosis is radiographic.
Carpal swelling or lameness after fast work should be evaluated promptly.
See the Second Carpal Bone (Left) on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model