The radial styloid process is a projection of bone on the lateral surface of the distal radius bone.
| Radial styloid process | |
|---|---|
 Human arm bones diagram | |
| Details | |
| Identifiers | |
| Latin | processus styloideus radii |
| TA98 | A02.4.05.015 |
| TA2 | 1225 |
| FMA | 23524 |
| Anatomical terms of bone | |
Structure
The radial styloid process is found on the lateral surface of the distal radius bone.[1] It extends obliquely downward into a strong, conical projection. The tendon of the brachioradialis attaches at its base.[2] The radial collateral ligament of the wrist attaches at its apex. The lateral surface is marked by a flat groove for the tendons of the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis.
Clinical significance
Breakage of the radius at the radial styloid is known as a Chauffeur's fracture; it is typically caused by compression of the scaphoid bone of the hand against the styloid.
De Quervain syndrome causes pain over the styloid process of the radius.[3][4] This is due to the passage of the inflamed extensor pollicis brevis tendon and abductor pollicis longus tendon around it.[4][5]
The styloid process of the radius is a useful landmark during arthroscopic resection of the scaphoid bone.[6]
A prominent styloid process of the radius makes applying a wrist splint more difficult.[7]
References
This article incorporates text in the public domain from page 220 of the 20th edition of Gray's Anatomy (1918)
External links
- Anatomy image: skel/hand2 at Human Anatomy Lecture (Biology 129), Pennsylvania State University
