Scaphoid Reconstruction Research Articles

Union rate and clinical outcomes of second-try scaphoid reconstructions after failed primary scaphoid osteosynthesis or reconstruction. A retrospective, single-center cohort study of 52 patients

IntroductionScaphoid non-union after failed primary surgery presents significant therapeutic challenges.MethodsIn this retrospective study, 52 patients (50 males; mean age 29.5 years) underwent secondary reconstructions (2009–2020) for proximal pole (38.5%, n = 20) and waist non-unions (61.5%, n = 32). Treatments included non-vascularized iliac crest grafts (17 patients), vascularized pedicled distal radius grafts (26), and free medial femoral condyle flaps (9). Union and scaphoid alignment were assessed by CT, while carpal alignment and arthrosis were evaluated using radiographs. Statistical analysis employed chi-square, Fisher's exact, Mann-Whitney U, and McNemar tests (R v4.4.2; p ≤ 0.05).ResultsUnion rates differed significantly between proximal pole (40%, 8/20) and waist non-unions (68.75%, 22/32; p = 0.04). Graft type (p = 0.616), osteosynthesis method (p = 0.827), age (p = 0.095), smoking (p = 0.582), avascular necrosis (p = 0.42), and prior surgeries (p = 0.974) showed no significant association with union. Proximal pole non-unions with AVN trended toward lower union (22.2% vs. 54.5% without AVN), though this was not statistically significant. In patients achieving union, scaphoid humpback deformity was corrected in 9/15 cases (p = 0.0348), and dorsal intercalated segment instability improved significantly (p = 0.0143). Functionally, the union group had an average extension-flexion of 112° (81% of the healthy wrist) and radial-/ulnar adduction of 40° (72% of the unaffected wrist), with grip strength averaging 42 kg (range 25.2-59.7) and a DASH score of 11 (range 0–67). The non-union group showed 114° extension-flexion (91% of the unaffected wrist) and 38° ulnar/radial abduction (78% of the healthy wrist), with grip strength averaging 46 kg (range 37.6-59.3; 89% of the unaffected wrist) and a DASH score of 10 (range 3–33).DiscussionSecondary scaphoid reconstruction demonstrates location-dependent success. The decision between secondary reconstruction, which aims to restore anatomical integrity, and salvage procedures, which prioritize predictable outcomes, hinges on balancing union potential, functional results, and patient preferences. A tailored approach remains essential to align treatment goals with individual needs.

Scaphoid Reconstruction Following Nonunion in Osteogenesis Imperfecta: A Case Report.

An 11-year-old boy with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) type 1 presented with a chronic scaphoid waist nonunion accompanied by cyst formation and dorsal intercalated segment instability. He had a history of treatment with bisphosphonate therapy and discontinued zoledronate 3 months before surgery. He underwent scaphoid reconstruction using nonvascularized, corticocancellous bone graft from the iliac crest and a buried headless compression screw. Within 12 weeks, imaging demonstrated union with bony remodeling and he resumed zoledronate. Temporary discontinuation of bisphosphonate therapy may normalize bone healing and reduce the risk of bisphosphonate-related delayed union in scaphoid reconstruction for children with OI.

Three-Dimensional-Planned Patient-Specific Guides for Scaphoid Reconstruction: A Comparative Study of Primary and Revision Nonunion Cases.

Background: Scaphoid reconstruction after an established non- or malunion is challenging and recent developments have shown the feasibility to reconstruct it with 3D-planned and -printed patient-specific instrumentation. Methods: Our study compared the clinical outcome of computer assisted 3D-reconstructions of the scaphoid using patient-specific guides for primary and revision reconstructions of scaphoid nonunion regarding clinical outcome. Therefore, 39 patients with primary scaphoid nonunion or malunion and 15 patients with nonunion or malunion after a previous operative treatment were treated with patient-specific guides and followed up for a mean of 10.5 months. The consolidation was assessed with a CT-scan, and the time to consolidation was recorded. Pain level, satisfaction, wrist range of motion, and grip strength were measured and compared. Results: The wrist range of motion and grip strength of the two groups were similar, except for the wrist extension, which was significantly reduced in the revision group. Consolidation was observed in 36/39 patients (92%) in the primary group and in 13/15 patients (87%) in the revision group. Our results showed similar clinical results postoperatively between primary reconstructions and revision surgery. Conclusions: The use of 3D-planned and -printed patient-specific instrumentation proves to be similarly effective in revision surgeries for the reconstruction of the scaphoid as it is in primary surgeries.

Scaphoid nonunion and SNAC treatment

Introduction Scaphoid nonunion can result in progressive scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (SNAC) and have an impact on the quality of life in younger patients. The social significance of the pathological condition induces original research and literature analysis.The objective was to identify methods for preventing scaphoid nonunion and improving treatment outcomes for SNAC patients based on the literature on etiology, diagnosis and treatment of the disease.Material and methods The original literature search was conducted on key resources including Scientific Electronic Library (www.elibrary.ru) and the National Library of Medicine (www.pubmed.org) and using the keywords: scaphoid nonunion, scaphoid, bone grafting, scaphoid nonunion, vascularized bone graft. The search yielded 355 results. Literature searches included both Russian and English studies published between 1984 and 2024. Inclusion criteria included original articles, systematic reviews, meta-analyses relevant to the search topic. Non-inclusion criteria included a case report, case/control, and articles available only on a fee-paying basis. There were 67 articles identified.Results and discussion The topography of the scaphoid is associated with a high incidence of avascular necrosis, delayed healing and fracture nonunion. Clinical testing and imaging are essential for diagnosis of scaphoid fractures in the acute period of injury, and fracture instability would be important for surgical indications. There is a classification of scaphoid nonunions that is practical for the choice of a surgical treatment (osteosynthesis with compression screws, debridement and bone grafts or “salvage” operations). Scaphoid nonunions treated with the Ilizarov method employing no open approaches or grafts was reported in a few publications. Treatment of SNAC patients is traditionally based on the stage of the disease: 1 — scaphoid reconstruction, resection of the styloid process of the radius; 2–3 — 4-corner arthrodesis or the proximal row carpectomy. Meta-analyses highlight the need for the research into the effectiveness of various treatments. Arthroscopic techniques are common in wrist surgery improving diagnostic capabilities and minimally invasive interventions.Conclusion Timely healing of a scaphoid fracture is essential for preventing carpal instability and SNAC. The choice of SNAC treatment is associated with the stage of the disease and functional needs of the patient.

Patient-reported outcomes and comprehensive assessment of wrist function after scaphoid reconstruction: A single-center retrospective study on 162 patients

Patient-reported outcomes and comprehensive assessment of wrist function after scaphoid reconstruction: A single-center retrospective study on 162 patients

Vascularized hemi-hamate graft: Anatomic description of a novel pedicled osteo-chondro-ligamentous flap for proximal scaphoid reconstruction

Vascularized hemi-hamate graft: Anatomic description of a novel pedicled osteo-chondro-ligamentous flap for proximal scaphoid reconstruction

An anatomical feasibility study using the first metatarsal head as a vascularized bone graft for proximal pole of scaphoid reconstruction.

An anatomical feasibility study using the first metatarsal head as a vascularized bone graft for proximal pole of scaphoid reconstruction.

Reasons for scaphoid non-union: Analysis of behavior of health care providers and patients

Reasons for scaphoid non-union: Analysis of behavior of health care providers and patients

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome as a Complication of Surgical Scaphoid Reconstruction in Nonunion and Secondary Fracture Dislocation.

The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors for postoperative carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) in operative management for scaphoid nonunion and secondary fracture dislocation, treated surgically with takedown and bone grafting. We reviewed medical records of all our patients that underwent carpal tunnel release after scaphoid reconstruction surgery from August 2002 to December 2020. We identified a total of 7 out of 191 patients (3.7%). We investigated surgical parameters, pre- to postoperative changes, in three-dimensional measurements of the scaphoid and carpal tunnel morphometry. We found the preoperative intrascaphoid angle (ISA) and the postoperative change in ISA to correlate with an increased risk of postoperative CTS. Patients undergoing operative scaphoid reconstruction that require a high degree of geometric correction can be at risk to develop postoperative CTS, hence they should be subject to a lower threshold decision for prophylactic carpal tunnel release. Level of Evidence Level III.

Postoperative scaphoid alignment, smoking, and avascular necrosis mostly influence union rate after scaphoid reconstruction: Results from a retrospective single center study involving 370 patients

Postoperative scaphoid alignment, smoking, and avascular necrosis mostly influence union rate after scaphoid reconstruction: Results from a retrospective single center study involving 370 patients

The corticocancellous press fit iliac crest bone dowel for recalcitrant scaphoid nonunion: analysis of union rate and clinical outcome

IntroductionScaphoid nonunion after failed primary treatment remains challenging particularly when entailed by bone loss, avascular necrosis or deformity. We describe a scaphoid augmentation and fixation technique for cases of recalcitrant nonunion after screw placement by autologous press fit corticocancellous dowel. This study aims to provide reliable data on clinical and radiological outcomes and to contextualize in the face of other treatment options.Material and methodsThe study included 16 patients with recalcitrant nonunion of the scaphoid. All patients received screw removal and scaphoid reconstruction by a dowel shaped non-vascularized corticocancellous bone graft from the iliac crest facilitating packing of the screw channel. Bone union, the scapholunate, radiolunate and intrascaphoidal angles were evaluated on X-ray and CT images, range of motion noted. Additionally grip strength, DASH and Green O’Brien scores were obtained from eight patients.ResultsA union rate of 73% was noted after mean follow-up of 54 months. After revisional reconstruction of the scaphoid an extension–flexion rate of 84% of the healthy side was noted while pronation-supination reached 101%. DASH score averaged at 2.9, rest pain on a numeric rating scale was 0.43 with 99% peak grip force of the healthy side.ConclusionIn complex cases of revisional scaphoid nonunion after screw placement, the corticocancellous iliac crest pressfit dowel is an option for augmentation and stabilization of the scaphoid by preserving the articular surface.Level of evidenceIV, retrospective case series.

The Medial Femoral Trochlea Osteochondral Flap for Scaphoid Reconstruction: A Systematic Review.

The medial femoral trochlea flap has been used to resurface scaphoids with recalcitrant proximal pole fractures or avascular necrosis, providing vascularized osteochondral tissue with similar morphological characteristics. This article aims to review the contemporary literature on its use for scaphoid reconstruction. A systematic review of Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and MEDLINE assessed the use of medial femoral trochlea flaps in scaphoids. Eight studies were included, with 76 patients at a mean age of 26 years. Forty-three patients underwent clinical review, and 10 patients underwent radiographic evaluation, at a mean 23.3 months of follow-up. Flaps were generally performed for proximal pole fractures, avascular necrosis, nonunion, or failure of prior fixation; 94.4% of the flaps united. No marked change in sagittal plane motion was noted; reductions were seen in axial and coronal plane motion. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores improved from a mean of 25.2 to 11.5. Radiographic markers also improved. A total of 12.3% of patients had unplanned return to theater. Three patients required early revision for vascular thrombosis, and 1 patient suffered a volar carpal dislocation. Three patients underwent salvage procedures for ongoing pain. Although technically demanding, promising early-term to medium-term results are noted with the use of medial femoral trochlea flaps in the scaphoid.

Lateral Femoral Trochlea Osteochondral Flap Reconstruction of Proximal Pole Scaphoid Nonunions

Lateral Femoral Trochlea Osteochondral Flap Reconstruction of Proximal Pole Scaphoid Nonunions

Perfusion of the proximal scaphoid pole: correlation between preoperative ge-MRI and intraoperative findings.

Gadolinium enhanced MRI (ge-MRI) is considered as gold standard for perfusion evaluation in case of scaphoid nonunion (SNU). However, its clinical value and specificity is still not clearly evaluated. This study compares preoperative ge-MRI-based perfusion assessment and intraoperative proximal pole (PP) perfusion after scaphoid reconstruction by vascularized bone grafts. In addition, the postoperative osseous consolidation (OC) was correlated to intraoperative perfusion findings. Between 08/2010 and 01/2020, 60 of 271 patients with scaphoid nonunion received a vascularized radius bone graft for reconstruction. Medical reports were checked for intra-op perfusion findings. Consolidation rate was assessed at mean follow-up of 3months by CT evaluation. In 50 cases (83.2%), complete medical and radiological history could be obtained. Preoperative ge-MRI was reevaluated by a blinded radiologist for advanced analysis of sensitivity and specificity. Preoperative ge-MRI (initial finding, IF) showed 23 avascular, 20 malperfused, and seven vital PP. Blinded radiological follow-up (second finding, SF) revealed 14 avascular, 28 malperfused, and 8 vital PP, with a concordance of 65.3% (n = 35). After correlation with the intra-op findings, a specificity of preoperative ge-MRI of 76.5% (IF) and 88.2 (SF), respectively, was revealed for exclusion of avitality. For detection of malperfusion, there was a sensitivity of 92.7% (IF) and 85.4% (SF), respectively. Complete OC was seen 12weeks postoperatively in 37 (73.5%), partial OC in 9 (18.3%), and nonunion in 4 cases (8.2%) on CT-scans. Of the 41 malperfused/avascular PP, 31 (75.6%) progressed to complete and 6 (14.6%) to partial (at least 2 adjacent CT-layers of 2mm) OC, with 4 nonunions. The sensitivity and specificity of ge-MRI for detection/ exclusion of malperfusion/avitality of the PP was lower than expected. Therewith, the intraoperative assessment of PP perfusion regains a high value in decision-making for the appropriate graft. We recommend preservation of the dorsal radial vascular plexus initially until the vascularity of the proximal pole has been estimated. Patient education for all contingencies and retraction options should be obtained.

Rib osteochondral graft for scaphoid proximal pole reconstruction

Background An irreparable scaphoid proximal pole is challenging to treat because of the fragment size and limited blood supply. Salvage surgery, such as partial wrist fusion or proximal row carpectomy, may be performed but is not ideal for young patients. There are few reports of proximal scaphoid reconstruction using rib osteochondral grafts. Methods Four patients were treated with rib osteochondral graft for reconstruction of the scaphoid proximal pole. The patients had a mean postoperative follow-up of 24 months. The mean age at the time of surgery was 30 years. Outcome measurements included total active range of wrist motion arc, grip strength, and wrist function score. We also evaluated the progression of osteoarthritis and changes in carpal height. Results No complications occurred at the donor site. The range of motion improved from 82° to 95° before and after surgery. Grip strength improved from 22 kg to 33 kg before and after surgery. There was a remarkable improvement in the modified wrist function scores of Green and O’Brien from 40 points to 70 points before and after surgery. No progression of arthrosis was seen on the radiographs of all the patients. There was no significant difference in the carpal height ratio before and after surgery. Conclusions Proximal scaphoid fractures may require reconstruction of the articular surfaces of the radius, capitate, and lunate. Reconstruction with a rib osteochondral graft is flexible, easy to fabricate, and can reconstruct the three articular surfaces.

Does Proximal Hamate Graft for Proximal Scaphoid Reconstruction Restore Native Wrist Kinematics?

The objective of this study was to determine whether reconstruction of the proximal pole of the scaphoid with a proximal hamate graft restores native carpal kinematics. A cadaveric study was designed assessing wrist kinematic after proximal hamate graft for proximal pole of the scaphoid nonunion. Wireless sensors were mounted to the carpus using a custom pin and suture anchor system to 8 cadavers. A wrist simulator was used to move the wrist through a cyclical motion about the flexion/extension and radial/ulnar deviation axes. Each specimen was tested under a series of 3 conditions: (1) a native state, "Intact"; (2) fractured scaphoid proximal pole, "Fracture"; and (3) post-reconstruction of the proximal pole of the scaphoid using a proximal hamate graft, "Graft." The fracture condition resulted in a statistically significant change in scapholunate kinematics across the entire arc of motion relative to the intact condition. Reconstruction with proximal hamate grafts restored scapholunate kinematics close to the intact state in both flexion/extension and radial/ulnar deviation axes. The lunocapitate flexion during wrist flexion was significantly different after the hamate graft reconstruction. Proximal hamate to scaphoid transfer resulted in restoration of near normal carpal kinematics to the intact state.

Non-Vascularized Tri-Cortical Iliac Crest Graft-A Reliable Option in the Management of Scaphoid Waist Non-Unions.

Background: Scaphoid non-union often leads to a change in biomechanics of the wrist joint. Various types of bone grafts and different sites of harvest have been described in the literature for scaphoid reconstruction. This study was conducted to assess the clinical and radiological outcome after non-vascularised tri-cortical iliac crest bone graft for non-union of scaphoid waist fractures. Methods: 12 adult patients who underwent reconstruction of scaphoid waist non-union with tricortical iliac crest grafting and internal fixation with headless compression screws (11 cases) and k-wires (1 case) were prospectively analysed. There were 11 males and 1 female (mean age 23.9 years). The mean duration of presentation was 5.7 months following injury. Outcome following surgery were analyzed clinically by range of movements (ROM) and functional scores like DASH and modified Mayo wrist score and radiologically by X-rays and Non contrast CT of the wrist. Radiological assessment included scaphoid length, radio-lunate (RL) angle and scapho-lunate (SL) angle at latest 6 months follow up. Results: Bony union was achieved in 10 cases (union rate 83%). All the cases which achieved union had a significant improvement in radiological and clinical outcome criterias at 6-month follow-up interval. 1 patient had persistent non-union and 1 had k-wire back out with fixation failure. Conclusions: It is important to restore scaphoid length and to correct flexion deformity for a successful outcome. This can reliably be acheived by a carefully planned wedge-shaped iliac crest graft along with secure fixation with a headless compression screw.

Scaphoid Fracture Reconstruction with Rib Autograft: Case Report and Literature Review

Objective. To evaluate the results of scaphoid bone proximal pole reconstruction with rib osteochondral autograft due to comminuted scaphoid fracture. Material and methods. We present a clinical case of fragmented scaphoid bone proximal pole fracture reconstruction by rib osteochondral autograft. The modified wrist function score of Green and O’Brien and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) outcome measuring scales were used for clinical evaluation before and 6 months after the reconstruction. Additio­nally, a literature review was conducted for case reports and previous literature reviews describing scaphoid bone proximal pole fracture surgical treatment. Medline (PubMed), ScienceDirect and UpToDate databases were used. Results. Conventional treatment methods for the treatment of comminuted proximal pole scaphoid bone fractures are often inappropriate due to technical issues or potential adverse outcomes. In these cases, reconstruction with rib autograft is possible. The study patient’s modified wrist function score of Green and O’Brien increased from 75 to 95 points out of 100 at 6 months postoperatively, and the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) score decreased from 13.64 to 4.55 points. The results of this technique have been investigated in several studies (Sandow, 1998, 2001; Veitch et al., 2007). All subjects (22, 47 and 14 patients, respectively), except one, experienced improvement of wrist function – enhanced wrist movement, grip strength, reduced pain and restored wrist function to the pre-injury performance level. Conclusions. Scaphoid bone proximal pole fragmented fracture reconstruction with osteochondrial rib autograft achieves favorable recovery of wrist function and avoids complications or unfavorable functional consequences of alternative surgical procedures.

A Morphometric Analysis of Hamate Autograft for Proximal Scaphoid Reconstruction.

Objective Recently, authors have investigated using the proximal hamate as osteochondral autograft for proximal pole scaphoid reconstruction in the case of nonunion with avascular necrosis. The aim of our study was to analyze the morphology and anatomic fit of the proximal hamate compared with the proximal pole of the scaphoid using cadaveric specimens. Materials and Methods Ten cadaver specimens (five males and five females) were dissected. Scaphoid and proximal hamate bones were measured by two independent investigators using electronic calipers and radius of curvature gauges. After measurements were determined to have good correlation, the average value of the two observers' measurements were used for further analysis. Sagittal radius of curvature (ROC), coronal ROC, depth, width, and maximum graft length were compared. Results The average depth of the scaphoid proximal pole was 12.3 mm (standard deviation [SD] = 1.12) compared with 11.3 mm (SD = 1.24) for the proximal hamate ( p = 0.36). The average width was 7.8 mm (SD = 1.00) in the scaphoids compared with 8.6 (SD = 1.05) in the hamates ( p = 0.09). There was also no significant difference in the sagittal ROC between hamates (9.1 mm, SD = 1.13) and scaphoids (9.5 mm, SD = 0.84; p = 0.36). All of these average measurements were within 1 mm. There was a significant difference between the coronal ROC of the hamate (23.4 mm) and scaphoid (21.1 mm) bones in our samples ( p = 0.03). Females were on average smaller than their males, but there was no significant difference in fit based on sex alone. Conclusion The proximal pole of the hamate has similar morphology and size as the scaphoid, with similar depth, width, and sagittal ROC. It has potential as an osteochondral autograft for proximal pole scaphoid reconstruction.

Comparison of scaphoid reconstruction with a non-vascularised bone graft, with and without shock waves; preliminary results

Focused, high energy shock wave therapy (ESWT) stimulates bone healing by neo-angiogenesis and activating osteocytes. This study investigates if applying an ESWT intraoperatively improves and accelerates the healing of a scaphoid nonunion after reconstruction using a non-vascularized bone graft. In this prospective, ongoing study, patients with a scaphoid reconstruction using a non-vascularized bone graft and stabilization for non-union, are randomized for having additionally an intraoperative ESWT (intervention group) or not (control group). In 6 weeks-intervals, patients have a clinical and radiological follow-up, including a CT scan at 12, 18, and if needed 24 weeks postoperatively. The intervention group and the control group are compared with regard to the proportion of the bridged contact area between scaphoid and the bone graft at 12, 18, and 24 weeks postoperatively and the rate of the healed scaphoids at the final follow-up. At time of this data analysis, 35 patients of the intervention group and 33 patients of the control group had passed all of their scheduled follow-ups. Twenty-four weeks postoperatively, the scaphoids of 27 patients (77 %) in the intervention group and those of 20 patients (61 %) in the control group were healed. At 12, 18, and 24 weeks, the contact area between scaphoid and the bone graft proximally was bridged by 80 %, 84 %, and 86 % respectively in the intervention group, and 74 %, 81 %, and 84 % in the control group. Distal to the bone graft, the gap was bridged by 91 %, 94 %, and 95 % for the intervention group and 77 %, 90 %, and 94 % for the control group. At 12 weeks postoperatively, the proportional healing distal to the bone graft was significantly higher after ESWT. A single, intraoperative ESWT improves the healing rate of scaphoid reconstruction with a non-vascularized bone graft and accelerates the gap bridging during the first 12 weeks after surgery.