pisiform n : a small wrist bone that articulates only with the triquetral [syn: pisiform bone, os pisiforme]

English

Adjective

1. Resembling a pea in size or shape

Noun

1. A small bone in the wrist at the junction of the ulna and the carpus

The pisiform bone (also called pisiform or lentiform bone) is a small knobbly, pea-shaped wrist bone.

The pisiform bone is found in the proximal row of the carpus. It is located where the ulna (inner bone of the forearm) joins the carpus (wrist). It articulates only with the triquetral.

It is a sesamoid bone.

The pisiform bone may be known by its small size, and by its presenting a single articular facet. It is situated on a plane anterior to the other carpal bones and is spheroidal in form.

The etymology derives from the Latin pīsum which means "pea."

Surfaces

Its dorsal surface presents a smooth, oval facet, for articulation with the triangular: this facet approaches the superior, but not the inferior border of the bone.

The volar surface is rounded and rough, and gives attachment to the transverse carpal ligament, and to the Flexor carpi ulnaris and Abductor digiti quinti.

The lateral and medial surfaces are also rough, the former being concave, the latter usually convex.

See also

• Intercarpal articulations
• Bone terminology
• Terms for anatomical location

Additional images

External links

• Illustration at ntu.edu.tw