Acute scaphoid fractures

Abstract

The most commonly fractured carpal bone is the scaphoid. Scaphoid fractures remain most common in males, but the frequency of scaphoid injury in females is increasing. Suspected scaphoid injuries are ubiquitous and early diagnostic imaging may aid in the diagnosis of scaphoid fractures and prevent needless immobilization. Nonoperative treatment involves some form of immobilization; however, the benefit of inclusion of the elbow, thumb, or both into the cast has not been proven. Nondisplaced fractures of the scaphoid have recently been treated more often with early screw fixation. While this may lead to better functional outcomes, the data establishing this are quite limited, and it may come at the cost of a significantly higher complication rate. Fractures in children over 10 years of age more closely resemble adult patterns. This is thought to be due to increasing body mass index in children and greater participation in high-energy sports.