A series of the wrist including AP, lateral and oblique views are necessary to diagnose the carpal instability. For perilunate dislocation, the lateral view is the essential view for diagnosis. The lunate will remain in position aligned with the distal radius, but the capitate will be dorsally dislocated.

     The anteroposterior view shows overlap of the distal and proximal carpal rows and may show an associated scaphoid subluxation or fracture.

L= Lunate; C=Capitate