Distal Ulna Anatomy

  • The distal ulnar articulates primarily via the TFCC with triquetrum and lunate but also with distal radius at the sigmoid notch which is the radial articular surface at the distal radioulnar joint.
  • The radiocarpal joint allows flexion/extension; ulnar and radial deviation.
  • Rotation (supination and pronation) occurs via the distal radioulnar joint.
  • Ulnarly the distal radius and the ulna attach to the TFCC. The TFCC articulates with the triquetrum distally and the ulnar head proximally.
Diagrams & Photos
  • Anatomy of the distal ulna. Note the head of the distal ulna, the TFCC, triquetrum(T), lunar (L), and scaphoid (S).
    Anatomy of the distal ulna. Note the head of the distal ulna, the TFCC, triquetrum(T), lunar (L), and scaphoid (S).
  • Diagram of distal radius and ulna
    Diagram of distal radius and ulna
  • X-ray of distal radius and ulna
    X-ray of distal radius and ulna
  • CT of distal radius and ulna
    CT of distal radius and ulna
Key Points
  • The ulnar styloid is shorter than the radial styloid.
  • The distal ulna has a groove for the ECU.
  • The TFCC attaches to the distal ulna at the styloid and at the fovea.
Anatomy References
Anatomic Abbreviations
Hand Surgery Resource Anatomy Diagnostic Guide (Chapter)