Scaphoid fractures that are not diagnosed and treated are in danger of developing two serious complications:
- Nonunion—when the bone fragments heal improperly or incompletely
- Avascular necrosis—when the fracture causes blood supply to be cut off to part or all of the bone, causing the bone tissue to die
Both of these complications can lead to bone collapse and arthritis. This is why it’s essential for patients who experience ongoing pain after a fall to seek medical treatment.
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Medical imaging is the only definitive way for physicians to diagnose a scaphoid fracture. Even then, it can be difficult to see a scaphoid fracture on an X-ray. Multiple X-ray images may be needed from different vantage points. Frequently, a more detailed test such as CT or MRI may be used to obtain a clearer image of the fracture.
In This Article:
- Scaphoid Fracture and Other Types of Wrist Fractures
- Diagnosing and Treating Scaphoid Fractures of the Wrist
- Less Common Types of Wrist Fractures
The Need for Surgery Depends on the Fracture
Scaphoid fracture repair surgery involves the use of screws to secure the bones as the fracture heals.
Once a scaphoid fracture has been diagnosed, it can be treated through either nonsurgical or surgical options—or sometimes both.
If the fracture is non-displaced (the bones are still in position), physicians may recommend 6 weeks of immobilization in a cast, accompanied by imaging check-ups to confirm the fracture is healing correctly. Despite the smallness of the bone, the cast may be fairly extensive, because the scaphoid bone is involved with almost all movement of the hand and wrist.
See The P.R.I.C.E. Protocol Principles
If the scaphoid bone is not healing properly (non-union), a bone stimulator—a device that delivers low-intensity ultrasonic or pulsed electromagnetic waves—may be used to promote bone growth.
For a fracture that poses risk for non-union or is displaced, surgery is the best recourse for treatment. Depending on the nature of the fracture, the surgeon will choose how to approach the fracture (front or back of the wrist) and how extensive the incisions need to be.
Once the fracture is reached, the surgeon will manipulate the bone back into proper position and then stabilize it with fixation tools such as wires or a screw. The surgeon may also recommend a bone graft if there is potential that the bone will not regrow well.
Recovering from a Scaphoid Fracture
Because of the scaphoid bone’s poor blood supply, scaphoid fractures can take a longer time to heal than other fractures. With or without surgery, patients may need to wear a cast or splint for up to 6 months.
Even while the wrist is immobile, finger exercises are important in order to maintain circulation and flexibility. Once the cast or splint is removed, patients can work with a physical therapist to restore as much strength and flexibility as possible. For some people, the nature of the fracture may mean they are not able to fully restore function of the wrist.
If a scaphoid fracture is diagnosed and treated early, the chances of it healing properly are much greater. Unfortunately, a delay of weeks or months in being diagnosed and treated increases the chances for a non-union and/or arthritis. For this reason, receiving prompt medical care when the fracture is suspected is essential.
