The carpal bones are bones of the wrist that connect the distal aspects of the radial and ulnar bones of the forearm to the bases of the 5 metacarpal bones of the hand (see Image. Normal Posteroanterior Radiograph of the Wrist Joint). Eight carpal bones divide into 2 rows: proximal and distal rows (see Image. Normal Lateral Radiograph of the Wrist Joint). The proximal row of carpal bones (moving from radial to ulnar) are the scaphoid, lunate, triquetrum, and pisiform, while the distal row of carpal bones (also from radial to ulnar) comprises the trapezium, trapezoid, capitate, and hamate. These bones make up most of the skeletal framework of the wrist and allow different neurovascular structures and tendons that enter the wrist to reach certain muscle groups and bony structures, respectively, and provide the innervation and blood supply necessary for them to function (see Image. Left Hand, Anterior View).