Bone
Trapezium
Carpal bone at the thumb base
High-yield
Saddle (carpometacarpal) joint with the 1st metacarpal allows thumb opposition; a common site of osteoarthritis.
Overview
A distal-row carpal bone forming the saddle joint with the thumb metacarpal that enables opposition.
Reference facts
- Bone type
- Short (carpal)
- Key landmarks
- Tubercle of trapezium; Saddle-shaped distal facet
- Articulations
- Scaphoid; 1st metacarpal; 2nd metacarpal; Trapezoid
Frequently asked questions
What type of bone is the trapezium?
The trapezium is a short (carpal) bone.
What does the trapezium articulate with?
The trapezium articulates with the scaphoid; 1st metacarpal; 2nd metacarpal; Trapezoid.
What are the key landmarks of the trapezium?
Key landmarks of the trapezium include the tubercle of trapezium; Saddle-shaped distal facet.