Treatment Of Scaphoid Nonunion Research Articles

Pedicled vascularized bone grafts compared with xenografts in the treatment of scaphoid nonunion.

Fractures of the scaphoid account for 60-70% of all wrist bone fractures. The results of treatment in terms of bone healing vary depending on the type and location of the fracture, the time elapsed since the injury, the type of surgical treatment. Nonunion occurs in 5-15% of the cases on average. The purpose of this paper is to compare the surgical techniques and results of treating scaphoid nonunion (SNU) with osteoplastic xenografts of bovine origin or a vascularized autograft of the distal part of the dorsal radius. We compare two groups of patients with symptomatic SNU, treated surgically with either a vascularized graft (n = 15) or a xenograft of bovine origin (n = 15). In the presurgical stage, the demographic characteristics of the patients, the time elapsed between injury and surgery, and classification of the injury (Schonberg, Herbert-Fisher, and Geissler-Slade) were recorded. One year following surgery, bone healing, total duration of the treatment, complications, the Mayo wrist score, and answers to the DASH questionnaire were analyzed. No statistically significant differences between the two groups of patients were observed for bone healing (86.7% vs 80%) or functional results. A highly significant difference was observed with respect to duration of the surgical intervention in favor of xenografts. The xenograft method is simple and relatively acceptable, providing good results in terms of healing and functionality.

Treatment of scaphoid non-union: vascularised iliac crest graft or medial femur condyle graft?

Treatment of scaphoid non-unions is still challenging for responsible hand surgeons, especially in cases of avascular proximal pole non-unions or failed prior surgeries. Several surgical procedures treating scaphoid non-unions have been established. These aim to restore correct anatomy to provide stability and adequate blood flow. Treatment options range from avascular to free, vascularized bone grafts. The two most used free vascularized bone grafts derive from the iliac crest and the medial femoral condyle. The vascular anatomy of the medial femoral condyle graft is more constant, the donor site morbidity lower and the healing rate higher in comparison to the iliac crest graft. It is easier to harvest the femoral condyle graft and additionally, it can be harvested as a cortico-cancellous or osteochondral graft. Looking at all advantage, we come to the conclusion that the free vascularized medial femoral condyle graft is our method of choice for the treatment of a avascular proximal pole non-union of the scaphoid.

Arthroscopic treatment for nonunion of the scaphoid.

Scaphoid nonunion has traditionally been treated by open surgery where the pseudarthrosis has been cleaned while either a structural wedged bone graft, or chips of cancellous bone has been used to fill the defect. K-wires or a screw has been used to stabilize the bone. Using the arthroscopic technique for treatment of nonunion of the scaphoid gives us small exposure to the joint, however with an excellent view of the bones, the articular surfaces and the intraarticular ligaments. The results from arthroscopic treatment for scaphoid nonunion with bone grafting using chips of cancellous bone are as good as from the open technique. The arthroscopic treatment, though, helps us to diagnose and treat concomitant lesions. There is less damage of blood supply, nerves and capsule, which might lead to a faster recovery and rehabilitation. The technique will be described and discussed.

How Long Should We Immobilize the Wrist after Vascularized Bone Grafting for the Treatment of Scaphoid Nonunion?

Background: Although vascularized bone grafting can effectively treat scaphoid nonunion, the optimal duration of the immobilization period after bone grafting is unclear. Therefore, we aimed to examine the difference in the union rate and range of motion between short and long immobilization periods and infer the optimal post-immobilization period after pedicled vascularized bone grafting for scaphoid nonunion treatment. Methods: A total of 23 wrists (21 men and 1 woman) with scaphoid nonunion treated using an intercompartmental supraretinacular artery pedicled vascularized bone graft were analyzed. We examined the difference in the union rate and range of motion between patients immobilized for less than 49 days (short immobilization group) and those immobilized for more than 49 days (long immobilization group). The range of motion of the wrist joint was measured before and after surgery. Patient outcomes were also assessed. Results: The overall union rate was 95.6%. A significant difference was found in postoperative extension and flexion between the two groups, but not in terms of the functional outcome. If the intraoperative fixation is solid, intraoperative proximal pole bleeding is confirmed, and the follow-up radiograph shows a normal healing process, we propose immobilization of the wrist for ≤ 7 weeks. Conclusions: The immobilization duration should depend on the solidity of intraoperative fixation and a satisfactory appearance on follow-up radiography: absence of a gap at the graft interface, surrounding lucency, or movement of the implant and displacement of the graft. If there are no signs of graft failure and fixation is solid, immobilization of the wrist for 7 weeks or less is recommended.

The Use of Nitinol Compression Staple Fixation and Bone Graft for Scaphoid Waist Fractures and Nonunion: A Surgical Technique

In the management of scaphoid fractures, nonunion is an important complication that can lead to carpal instability and early-onset arthritis. Various techniques have been described to treat scaphoid nonunions, yet a clear consensus on the superiority of one method is not yet established. The use of compression staple fixation has been described in the literature and may be a viable alternative to other fixation techniques. Volar Nitinol staple fixation avoids damage to the trapezium during retrograde fixation with a screw. It also avoids damage to the proximal dorsal cartilage, which occurs during anterograde screw fixation. Because of its shape and position on the volar aspect of the scaphoid, staple fixation provides compression, prevents graft extrusion, and avoids taking up space in the medullary canal of the scaphoid. Moreover, it may be technically easier than screw fixation. Despite these advantages, this technique has not been widely adopted. We describe the technique for utilizing Nitinol compression staples and bone grafting in the treatment of scaphoid nonunion.

Arthroscopic Bone Grafting and Kirschner-Wires Fixation for Scaphoid Nonunion

Various surgical techniques, such as corticocancellous or cancellous bone graft and other vascularized bone grafting techniques have been developed to treat scaphoid nonunion. However, open grafting with dissection of wrist capsule and ligaments damages the joint and hence can lead to increased stiffness of the wrist and hand. Arthroscopic assisted bone grafting and percutaneous fixation have advantages such as minimal surgical trauma to the scaphoid blood supply and its ligament connection and provide a thorough wrist assessment, comprehensive approach for scaphoid nonunion and its sequelae in a minimally invasive manner. This article briefly discusses the characteristic anatomy of the wrist and scaphoid, and reviews the technique of arthroscopic bone grafting and percutaneous fixation for the treatment of scaphoid nonunion.

Comparative outcome analysis of internal screw fixation and Kirschner wire fixation in the treatment of scaphoid nonunion

In cases with difficult scaphoid screw placement due to small, fragile bone fragments, or transplants and insufficient space, the internal Kirschner wire fixation is a fallback option; however, controversy remains regarding its stability, safety, and outcome. Between 2001 and 2011, 95 patients were treated in our center (n = 80 with cannulated compression screws and n = 15 with Kirschner wires), and retrospectively analyzed. The outcome measurements included the analysis of patient data, union rate and analysis of functional measures, and quality of life. Bony reconstructions were performed with Vascularized Bone Grafts (VBG) based on the 1,2-Intercompartmental Supraretinacular Artery (ICSRA) , Medial Femoral Condyle (MFC)-VBG, cancellous bone, and iliac crest grafts. Bony healing and functional outcome showed no significant differences between Kirschner wire fixation and cannulated compression screws, although significantly more 1,2-ICSRA-VBG were treated with Kirschner wires. Although predominantly used as an intraoperative fallback option, our data demonstrate that Kirschner wire internal fixation can be safe and reliable, with comparable bony union rates and excellent functional outcomes.

Scaphoid excision with lunatocapitate fusion for the treatment of scaphoid nonunionwith advanced collapsed wrist.

To investigate the union rate after lunatocapitate arthrodesis for the treatment of scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (SNAC) wrists and to evaluate the clinical results of this technique. We conducted a prospective study between January 2014 and July 2017. Fifteen males with painful stage III SNAC wrists (average age, 32years, range, 20-37years; average follow-up time, 25.2months, range, 20-36months) underwent scaphoid excision and lunatocapitate fusion. Lunatocapitate fusions were fixed with headless Herbert screws with K-wire fixation (retrograde direction). Radiographs, wrist range of motion, and Mayo wrist score were examined. All patients achieved radiographic and clinical union after lunatocapitate fusion during follow-up (average 10months post-operatively). The flexion-extension arc was 70°, and the average Mayo wrist score was 74.3 points (eight with excellent, four with good, three with satisfactory, and one with poor result). Thirteen patients returned to work, whereas two with nonunion required surgical graft revision. Complete union was achieved at an average of 12weeks after graft revision, with improved range of motion, and the patients returned to work with a change in their occupation. Lunatocapitate arthrodesis is a satisfactory therapeutic alternative to four-corner fusion for SNAC wrists.

Carpal Collapse After Scaphoid Nonunion: A Novel Combined Approach to the 1,2 Intercompartmental Supraretinacular Artery Radial Flap

PurposeScaphoid nonunion remains a major problem in hand surgery. The 1,2 intercompartmental supraretinacular artery flap (1,2 ICSRA), as first described by Zaidemberg et al, is widely used with reported union rates of approximately 80%. However, its use is limited in the case of associated carpal collapse as in dorsal intercalated segmental instability (DISI) and humpback deformity. In this study, we present a novel approach to this flap enabling the correction of associated carpal collapse.MethodsBetween 2006 and 2015, 9 patients with scaphoid nonunion or delayed union with carpal collapse were treated with a vascularized bone flap based on the 1,2 ICSRA using a combined volar and dorsal approach. Immobilization in a short-arm cast was applied for 8 weeks. Union rates, correction of DISI and humpback deformity, as well as clinical end points were noted. In addition, scapholunate (SL) angles were measured using 2 accepted radiological techniques, employing either the scaphoid midline axis or its proximal radiological landmarks as a reference.ResultsAll cases united and a median time to bone consolidation of 4 months (range, 2–5 months) was observed. Preoperative DISI deformities (n = 4) were corrected in all patients. Humpback deformities (n = 5) were also corrected. Two patients had repeat surgery: one for K-wire removal after bony consolidation and the other for neuropathic pain.ConclusionsThe 1,2 ICSRA bone flap is a reliable treatment for scaphoid nonunion associated with carpal collapse. This combined volar and dorsal approach permits the correction of DISI and humpback deformity without compromising the scaphoid vascular supply, which eliminates the need to use free bone flaps from other sites. In this series, we observed a 100% union rate. Two patients required reoperation for symptomatic hardware and dorsal wrist pain linked to superficial neuritis.Type of study/level of evidenceTherapeutic IV.

Autogenous Bone Graft With Kirschner Wire Fixation Could Be a Reliable Treatment Option for Scaphoid Nonunion in Adolescents.

Scaphoid nonunion in adolescents is rare, and most treatments include prolonged immobilization and screw fixation. Many studies have shown that Kirschner wires (K-wires) show comparable outcomes in screw fixation in adult scaphoid nonunion. However, few studies have reported K-wire fixation results in the treatment of adolescent scaphoid nonunion. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiologic results after bone graft and K-wire fixation for scaphoid nonunion in adolescents. We retrospectively reviewed 12 adolescent patients, mean age 15.4 (12 to 17) years, who underwent surgical treatment of scaphoid nonunion. Autogenous bone grafts with K-wire fixation were performed for all patients. Radiologic results, including bone union and degenerative changes, were evaluated with serial radiographs. Clinical results, including range of motion, grip strength, and a visual analogue scale for pain, were assessed. All patients received <3 years of postoperative follow-up assessments. Stable bony union was achieved in all patients. Radiologic bony unions were identified at an average of 11.4 weeks postoperatively (range, 9 to 15 wk). The mean active range of motion of the injured wrist at 3 years postoperatively was 215 degrees (range, 185 to 230 degrees). None of the patients were treated for wrist pain or needed medication during follow-up. Three patients experienced intermittent pain (visual analogue scale 1) after heavy work. The grip strength was reduced compared with the uninjured hand (31.8 and 32.8 kg, respectively), but there was no statistically significant difference (P=0.19). All patients had the K-wire removed at 12 weeks postoperatively. There was no degenerative change in the scaphoid at the final follow-up radiograph. Autogenous bone graft with K-wire fixation could be a reliable treatment option of scaphoid nonunion in adolescents. Level IV-retrospective case series.

Clinical and Patient-Reported Outcomes After Hybrid Russe Procedure for Scaphoid Nonunion.

Background: Hybrid Russe technique for the treatment of scaphoid nonunion with humpback deformity has been described with a reported 100% union rate. We sought to evaluate the reproducibility of this technique. Methods: We completed a retrospective chart review of patients with a scaphoid waist nonunion and humpback deformity treated with the hybrid Russe technique from 2015 to 2019 with a minimum of 3-month follow-up. Twenty patients with 21 nonunions were included (mean follow-up: 7.0 months). Scapholunate angle was the primary outcome measure. Secondary outcomes included: intrascaphoid angle, radiolunate angle, pain on the visual analog scale (VAS), and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) score. Other variables included: time to computed tomography (CT) union, range of motion, and complications. Descriptive statistics were presented. Pre- and postoperative angles, VAS, and QuickDASH scores were evaluated with Wilcoxon signed rank tests. Results: The mean scapholunate angle improved -17.6° ± 6.4°. The mean intrascaphoid angle improved 28.2° ± 6.3°. The mean radiolunate angle improved 12.8° ± 8.8°. Of the 21 scaphoids, 20 (95%) demonstrated union on a CT scan. One patient was diagnosed with a nonunion. In total, 90% of patients noted symmetric range of motion compared with the contralateral side. The mean VAS pain score improved 6 ± 3 points. The mean QuickDASH score improved 10 ± 8 points. Complications (aside from nonunion) included 1 patient with persistent wrist pain that resolved with removal of hardware. Conclusions: The hybrid Russe technique for the treatment of scaphoid nonunions with humpback deformity demonstrates a 95% union rate. This technique is effective, reproducible, and may serve as an alternative to techniques that include structural grafts from distant sites.

Clinical and radiological results of the vascularized medial femoral condyle graft for scaphoid non-union

IntroductionThis study evaluated the use of a free vascularized bone graft with and without cartilage from the medial femoral condyle (MFC) in patients with recalcitrant scaphoid non-union, with a special focus on union rates and the osteochondral graft for proximal pole destruction.Materials and methodsThirty-eight avascular scaphoid non-unions in 37 patients who were treated with a free osteoperiosteal or osteochondral MFC graft were retrospectively evaluated (mean follow-up 16 months). Bone union, the scapholunate and the radiolunate angles were evaluated on X-ray images. The range of motion, grip strength, VAS, DASH and PRWE scores were evaluated clinically.ResultsThe overall union rate was 95%. Bone union was achieved in 27 out of 29 (93%) scaphoids treated with a free osteoperiosteal MFC grafts and in 9 out of 9 (100%) scaphoids treated with a free osteochondral MFC graft. The range of motion remained almost unchanged, while grip strength increased significantly (34 kg vs. 44 kg) and the VAS (22–5), DASH (59–19) and PRWE (62–30) score decreased significantly. The scapholunate (71°–65°) and radiolunate (28°–18°) angle decreased. No major donor site morbidity was observed. Postoperative complications were observed in eight cases (21%).ConclusionsThe vascularized medial femoral bone graft leads to a good functional outcome in the treatment of scaphoid non-unions. The graft provides adequate blood supply and structural stability to the scaphoid. A proximal pole destruction can be replaced using an osteochondral graft with promising short-term results preventing carpal osteoarthritis and collapse.

Treatment of scaphoid nonunion with 1,2 intercompartmental supraretinacular artery vascularized graft and compression screw fixation

PurposeAim of the present study was to evaluate the clinical, functional, and radiological outcomes of 1,2-intercompartmental supraretinacular artery (1.2-ICSRA) vascularized graft technique together with compression screw fixation for the management of scaphoid nonunions. MethodsA retrospective study was designed to evaluate the medical records of the 21 patients treated with 1,2-ICSRA vascularized graft for established scaphoid nonunion of the waist or proximal pole between 2015 and 2018. Seventeen patients who met the criteria were included in the study. The retrospectively analysed demographic parameters included age, gender, injured hand (dominant/non-dominant), aetiology of the injury, delay between injury and operation, initial treatments following the fracture, tobacco use, and background diseases that may affect healing (diabetes, vasculopathy etc.). Radiological and clinical examinations were routinely performed 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months after surgery and during the final follow-up. Postoperative clinical and functional outcomes at the latest follow-up were evaluated by measuring active wrist range of motion, grip strength, Turkish version of Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnare (Quick DASH) and Mayo Wrist scores and comparing them with preoperative values. ResultsAll 17 patients were male with an average age of 26.82 ± 4.08 years (range 20–35 years). The fracture site was located in the scaphoid waist and proximal pole in 5 (29.4%) and 12 (70.6%) patients, respectively. Avascular necrosis was observed in 13 patients (2 at the waist, 11 at the proximal pole). The mean follow-up duration was 18.88 ± 11.98 months (range 6–44 months). No graft extrusion occurred, and no other complication was observed in any of the patients. Amongst the 17 patients, 15 (88.2%) achieved union. The total wrist motions of patients were better postoperatively than preoperatively. However, only improvement in wrist extension was found to be statistically significant. Quick DASH and Mayo Wrist scores of the patients and grip strength were significantly improved postoperatively. ConclusionThe 1,2-ICSRA vascularized graft technique together with compression screw fixation offers an easy and reliable option for the treatment of scaphoid nonunions with a high union rate and good functional and clinical outcomes.Level of Evidence : IV Therapautic

Revision surgery after vascularized or non-vascularized scaphoid nonunion repair: A national population study

HypothesisWe aimed (1) to discover the prevalence of vascularized bone grafting in the treatment of scaphoid nonunion and (2) to compare healing using vascularized bone grafting versus standard non-vascularized techniques. Secondarily, we sought to compare resource utilization between procedures and identify factors that may be associated with nonunion repair failure. We hypothesized that, despite being less common, vascularized bone grafts have greater success than non-vascularized bone grafting surgeries. MethodsWe performed a large population analysis using the Truven MarketScan databases to identify patients from 2009 to 2017 with a diagnosis of a scaphoid nonunion undergoing repair surgery with and without the insertion of a pedicled or free vascularized bone graft. We defined any subsequent scaphoid or wrist surgery within 12 months after surgery as surgery failure. We compared success rates and post-operative resource utilization using Chi-squared tests. ResultsOf 4177 eligible patients, 358 underwent nonunion repair with vascularized bone graft and 3819 patients received non-vascularized bone grafting. The failure rate requiring revision surgery was 5.0% in vascularized repair, versus 6.1% for non-vascularized surgery. Age and comorbidities did not affect bone graft type. Areas with higher median household incomes had more vascularized repairs. Vascularized bone graft patients received significantly more therapy and imaging after surgery. ConclusionsMost scaphoid nonunion repairs are performed without vascularize bone grafting. Typical nonunions may not justify the increased time and technical demands of vascularized bone grafting, and traditional repair should remain first line treatment for scaphoid nonunions without additional risk factors. Further studies to elucidate which fractures benefit most from vascularized grafting are needed.

The use of pedicled vascularized bone grafts in the treatment of scaphoid nonunion: clinical results, graft options and indications.

Scaphoid nonunion is a challenging situation for orthopaedic surgeons. Nonunion rate is especially high in proximal pole fractures of the scaphoid due to tenuous retrograde blood supply.The use of pedicled vascularized bone grafts for the treatment of scaphoid nonunion provides both good clinical and radiological outcomes.The preserved vascularity of the graft leads to better bone remodelling, less osteopenia, faster incorporation and better maintenance of bone mass compared to the conventional non-vascularized grafting.Pedicled vascularized bone grafts also allow the correction of the carpal alignment and humpback deformity of the scaphoid.Clinical and radiological results have been satisfactory and promising, making us anticipate that the role of vascularized bone grafting for the treatment of carpal diseases will increase.Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2020;5:1-8. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.5.190021

Conservative Treatment of Scaphoid Nonunion in Children - A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Conservative Treatment of Scaphoid Nonunion in Children - A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Modified Matti-Russe technique using a “butterfly bone graft” for treatment of scaphoid non-union

IntroductionAutologous bone grafts are used to treat scaphoid non-union with shortening and humpback deformity. The superiority of internally fixed bone graft to embedded bone graft has not been clearly proven. MethodsRetrospectively analyzed 42 cases of scaphoid waist non-union treated using the “butterfly bone graft” (modified Matti-Russe technique). ResultsComplete healing was reached by all patients, with an average time of 4.4 (SD ± 0.7) months. Mayo Wrist Score improved from and QuickDASH score significantly improved in all patients after treatment. ConclusionsButterfly bone graft is effective and reliable in treating scaphoid non-union with shortening and humpback deformity.

Vascularized pedicled graft from distal radius for scaphoid nonunion with double stabilization: A long term follow up study

PurposeThe aim of the present study is to present the long-term efficacy of the graft of the distal radius based on the 1,2 intercompartmental supraretinacular artery (1,2 ICSRA) for the treatment of scaphoid nonunion with a proposed treatment of double stabilization with Kirschner wires and external fixator. MethodsBetween 2007 and 2013 we retrospectively reviewed 11 patients who were operated for established scaphoid nonunion with pedicled vascularized distal radius graft based on the 1,2 ICSRA in our department. Stabilization of the graft was achieved with Kirschner wires and the wrist was immobilized with a transarticular external fixator. All patients were evaluated pre- and post-operatively both clinically and radiologically. The DASH score was also completed by the patients before and after the operation. The minimum follow-up of the patients was 5 years. ResultsThe mean age of the patients was 28.64 years (range, 18–49 years). Ten patients were males (90.91%) and one female (9.09%). In all patients, union was achieved. The mean time of union was 11.2 weeks (range, 8–18 weeks). The mean follow-up was 61.32 months (range, 60–72 months). Compared to the contralateral hand there was noticed 14° lack in flexion and 18° in extension. The mean DASH score showed also significant improvement from 23.1 (range, 9.4–50.6) preoperatively to 4.72 (range, 0–22.8) during the last follow-up. ConclusionThe 1,2 ICSRA distal radius graft consists a trustworthy pedicled vascularized graft for the treatment of nonunion presenting very promising long-term outcomes.

Arthroscopic treatment of scaphoid nonunion with humpback deformity and DISI with corticocancellous bone grafting: Technical note

For two decades, scaphoid nonunion has been treated arthroscopically. However, compressed cancellous bone graft does not have the same mechanical properties as corticocancellous bone graft for reducing the scaphoid humpback deformity and DISI tilt. Here, we describe an arthroscopic technique to treat Alnot stage IIB scaphoid nonunion. We treated a 27-year-old male patient for scaphoid waist nonunion with humpback deformity and DISI. A 8×8×10 mm cylindrical corticocancellous bone graft was harvested from the dorsal aspect of the radius using a single-use osteochondral autograft transfer system (OATS®, Arthrex Inc., Naples, USA). It was inserted in the nonunion site through an arthroscopic volar approach. Bone union was obtained at 3 months with lasting correction of the scaphoid humpback deformity and DISI. The functional result at 6 months was excellent. There were no complications. Scaphoid nonunion with humpback deformity and DISI may be treated arthroscopically with a corticocancellous bone graft.

Nickel\u2013titanium arched shape-memory alloy connector combined with bone grafting in the treatment of scaphoid nonunion

PurposeTo summarize the techniques and clinical effectiveness in treating scaphoid nonunion with nickel–titanium (Ni–Ti) arched shape-memory alloy connector in combination with autologous iliac bone grafts.MethodsThis study retrospectively analyzed 18 scaphoid nonunion cases treated with arched connectors with autologous iliac bone grafts. Based on scaphoid nonunion, 2 cases were classified as type II (fibrous union), 4 cases as type III (mild sclerotic union), 6 cases as type IV (moderate resorption and sclerosis), 5 cases as type V (severe bone resorption and sclerosis), and 1 case as type VI (pseudarthrosis formation). At the first 4, 8 and 12 weeks after the surgery, wrist anteroposterior, lateral X-ray were obtained, respectively, to evaluate bone healing. Patients who had not yet reached the standard of healing at 12 weeks after surgery would continue to receive additional appointments for follow-up visits, such as 14 weeks, 16 weeks, 18 weeks after surgery, until their imaging studies had achieved satisfactory bone healing. Clinical effectiveness was evaluated comprehensively, based on bone union time, Mayo wrist score, and visual analog pain score.ResultsAll 18 patients achieved satisfactory reduction and fixation with a mean union time of 4.2 months. Preoperative Mayo wrist score averaged 57.4 and average final postoperative follow-up was 91.4. On the other hand, mean preoperative VAS score was 6.8, and final postoperative follow-up average was 1.6. Mayo wrist score of the overall treatment effectiveness was excellent (90–100) in 12 cases, good (80–90) in 5 cases, and acceptable (60–80) in 1 case with zero poor (below 60) cases observed. Statistical analysis suggested that a statistically significant improvement in fracture healing, wrist function recovery and visual analog pain after surgery when compared to the scores of the patients before surgery.ConclusionUsing Ni–Ti arched shape-memory alloy connector in combination with autologous bone grafting provided a new modality to treat scaphoid nonunions in a less traumatic, convenient to operate and satisfactory manner in treatment outcomes, and thus is worthy of further application.