Sheet plastination of the vascularity of the lunate bone--a morphological study.

Abstract

Using the method of sheet plastination, the vascularity of the lunate bone can be investigated and analyzed. By intraosseous injection, the deep and superficial venous systems are visualized. Transparent sheets with slices of embedded specimens show a three-dimensional presentation of the vascularity of the human carpus different in functional aspects. Comparing hands with a normal and extended wrist position, three mechanisms of impairment of the venous drainage are observed. The anatomical results of this investigation support the hypothesis that venous congestion, resulting from intraosseous hypertension, plays a role in the development of the necrosis of the lunate bone.