An Educational Guide to Scaphoid Fractures

A scaphoid fracture is a type of most common wrist fracture that accounts for around 15% of all fractures affecting the wrist. Teens and young adults below 30 are more prone to getting such types of fractures. They generally occur because of high-energy trauma, falling on the hand, or automobile accidents. People suffering from bone-related conditions like osteoporosis are more prone to breaking their scaphoid bone. 

Severe scaphoid fractures may require internal fixation that involves the use of Orthopedic Implants Plates, pins, wires, and screws. However, in most cases, the condition can be managed without surgery. This post will talk about the management of scaphoid fractures in detail.  

What is a Scaphoid Fracture?

The scaphoid is a type of carpal bone that is present in our wrist and any break occurring in this bone is termed a scaphoid fracture. This bone is present near the base of the thumb and high-energy traumas can affect its anatomical position and structure. Depending on the severity of the cause, a scaphoid fracture can be displaced or non-displaced. On average, it takes around 3 months for a person to recover from a scaphoid fracture.  

What Are the Symptoms of a Scaphoid Fracture?

The symptoms of the fracture affecting the scaphoid bone include:

●        Pain

●        Swelling

●        Tenderness

●        Bruising

●        Inability or difficulty in moving the wrist 

What Could Cause Scaphoid Fracture?

An impact on your wrist can result in a fracture in the scaphoid bone and this could occur due to several causes:

●        Catching yourself with outstretched arms

●        Car Accident

●        Contact sports injuries 

Pathophysiology of the Scaphoid Bone

The scaphoid bone is divided into three parts including:

●        The proximal pole

●        Waist

●        Distal pole 

The branches of the radial artery supply blood to the scaphoid and fractures can compromise this. Hence, there could be a risk of avascular necrosis. Thus, it is very important to consider this point during the management of scaphoid fractures.  

How Scaphoid Fractures Are Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of the condition is made with a physical examination followed by certain imaging tests. 

Physical Examination

Here, the healthcare service provider will examine the injured wrist for painful areas and movement. Besides this, the wrist will also be checked for swelling, tenderness, and bruising.  

Imaging Tests

Imaging tests are required to confirm that the scaphoid bone is affected and identify whether other bones are affected or not. The tests ordered may include:

●        X-ray

●        Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

●        CT scan 

What is the Treatment for Scaphoid Fractures?

The severity of the fracture decides which type of treatment is feasible. If the fracture is mild and non-displaced, it can be managed with immobilization. It is achieved with the application of a cast or splint. In the case of a displaced fracture that cannot be managed with immobilization, closed reduction is performed. In severe cases, internal fixation is recommended which is achieved with open reduction surgery. It will require the use of hand & wrist implants.  

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