What are Gilula lines? Guh-WHO?? 🤨
Interpreting wrist radiographs should be done systematically. When reviewing the PA view, don't miss this key finding related to the carpal bones.
“Some lovers do... something…” 🤔 You probably memorized a saying to remember the names of the wrist carpal bones. You may or may not remember the name of each of these and that’s okay.
There is a key component when looking at wrist radiographs and that’s Gilula lines or the arcs of Gilula! That is the proximal and distal row of carpal bones form 3 smooth lines: proximal (1st), middle (2nd) and distal (3rd) seen in the PA view of wrist radiographs.
In general, these should be continuous smooth arcs without step-off or disruption. If there is a disruption of Gilula lines, this suggests ligamentous injury or fracture at the site of the broken arc. The photo below shows a peri-lunate dislocation - an Orthopedic Emergency! Don't miss this!!
ACTION STEP: next time you order wrist radiographs, determine which view is the PA view and look for Gilula lines!
Interested in diving deeper? This is the article I referenced which reviews wrist anatomy and imaging with excellent graphics! Check it out!
