Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
Interpreting an X-ray wrist can feel confusing, especially when questions are asked about carpal bones and their order of appearance. But with the right approach and a smart mnemonic, this topic becomes quick, logical, and scoring.
In this short guide inspired by Dr. Anand Bhatia’s concise teaching, let’s break down the most important wrist X-ray concepts that are frequently tested in exams.
A Thought to Begin With
“You are the hero of your life. Do something amazing. Be positive and be grateful for how far you’ve come.”
Now, let’s get into the topic.
Why Is Wrist X-Ray So Important?
Wrist X-ray questions commonly appear in:
- Pediatrics
- Radiology
- Growth and development topics
- Exam MCQs related to bone age
Most questions revolve around:
- Identification of carpal bones
- Their order from lateral to medial
- The sequence of appearance in infants
Carpal Bones: Lateral to Medial (Must-Know Order)
The easiest way to remember the carpal bones is through the classic mnemonic:
“She Looks Too Pretty, Try To Catch Her”
Using this mnemonic, the carpal bones from lateral to medial are:
- S – Scaphoid
- L – Lunate
- T – Triquetrum
- P – Pisiform
- T – Trapezium
- T – Trapezoid
- C – Capitate
- H – Hamate (Hook of hamate)
This sequence is crucial for accurate X-ray wrist interpretation.
Which Is the First Carpal Bone to Appear?
This is a very common exam question.
A. Capitate
- First carpal bone to appear
- Appears at around 2 months of age
Which Is the Second Carpal Bone to Appear?
B. Hamate
- The second carpal bone to appear
- Appears at around 3 months of age
Which Is the Last Carpal Bone to Appear?
C. Pisiform
- Appears much later
- That’s why it is often ignored initially while assessing early wrist X-rays in infants
Quick Summary for Revision
- Mnemonic (Lateral → Medial):
She Looks Too Pretty Try To Catch Her - First carpal bone: Capitate – 2 months
- Second carpal bone: Hamate – 3 months
- Last carpal bone: Pisiform
Final Takeaway
Wrist X-ray interpretation doesn’t need long explanations. With one strong mnemonic and clarity about the order of carpal bone appearance, you can confidently handle most exam questions.
Short, focused learning like this not only saves time but also improves retention — exactly what you need during exam preparation.
Keep learning, stay consistent, and trust the process.
