What does Murphy's Sign indicate when a patient demonstrates level knuckles after a wrist injury?

What does Murphy's Sign indicate when a patient demonstrates level knuckles after a wrist injury?

• A. Scaphoid Fracture
• B. Lunate Dislocation
• C. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• D. Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injury

Answer: (B)

Murphy's Sign is a clinical test that helps to indicate a potential lunate dislocation in the context of a wrist injury. When a patient presents with level knuckles, it suggests that the third metacarpal is in alignment with the other metacarpals—indicating that the lunate bone is not in its normal anatomical position. In cases of lunate dislocation, the wrist may lose its normal contour, and the position of the fingers can appear altered due to the loss of grip functionality, thereby causing the knuckles to align at the same height. This finding is pertinent as underlying lunate dislocation can lead to serious complications, including avascular necrosis of the lunate if not treated promptly. Recognizing this sign is critical for appropriate diagnosis and intervention. If left unchecked, a lunate dislocation could further complicate the wrist structure and function, making swift identification and management essential for optimal recovery.

Murphy's Sign is a clinical test that helps to indicate a potential lunate dislocation in the context of a wrist injury. When a patient presents with level knuckles, it suggests that the third metacarpal is in alignment with the other metacarpals—indicating that the lunate bone is not in its normal anatomical position.

In cases of lunate dislocation, the wrist may lose its normal contour, and the position of the fingers can appear altered due to the loss of grip functionality, thereby causing the knuckles to align at the same height. This finding is pertinent as underlying lunate dislocation can lead to serious complications, including avascular necrosis of the lunate if not treated promptly.

Recognizing this sign is critical for appropriate diagnosis and intervention. If left unchecked, a lunate dislocation could further complicate the wrist structure and function, making swift identification and management essential for optimal recovery.