American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Practice Exam

What do we call the wrist bones?

1. Carpal

2. Metacarpal

3. Phalangeal

4. Tarsal

The correct answer is: Carpal

The wrist bones are referred to as carpal bones. This term specifically designates the eight small bones located in the wrist area, which form the carpal region and connect the hand to the forearm. These bones are organized in two rows, creating a complex structure that allows for a wide range of motion of the wrist and hand. The other terms refer to different sets of bones in the body. Metacarpal bones are the five long bones located in the middle part of the hand, connecting the carpal bones to the phalanges (fingers). Phalangeal bones refer to the bones of the fingers and toes; each finger consists of three phalanges, except for the thumb, which has two. Tarsal bones are the cluster of seven bones located in the ankle, connecting the foot to the lower leg. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in anatomy and medical coding, particularly when describing injuries or conditions related to specific areas of the skeletal system.