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Fractures of the scaphoid
Scandinavian Journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|January 1, 1975
Summary
Proper conservative treatment achieves 95% bony union in fresh scaphoid fractures. Factors like fracture type and displacement significantly impact outcomes, with operative intervention recommended for severe cases.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Traumatology
- Hand Surgery
Background:
- Scaphoid fractures are the most common carpal injuries.
- Inadequate treatment can result in non-union, leading to pain and disability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review outcomes of 134 scaphoid fractures treated between 1961-1970.
- To identify factors influencing scaphoid fracture healing and treatment success.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 134 scaphoid fractures.
- Analysis of treatment methods (conservative vs. operative) and outcomes.
- Evaluation of fracture characteristics (age, type, location, displacement).
Main Results:
- 95% bony union achieved with conservative treatment for fresh fractures (<4 weeks old).
- Both high and low circular casts yielded favorable results.
- Fracture-dislocations >1 mm consistently led to pseudarthrosis.
- Matti-Russe technique effective for scaphoid pseudarthrosis.
- Scaphoid fractures in children are more common than presumed, typically in the distal two-thirds.
Conclusions:
- Conservative treatment is highly effective for fresh scaphoid fractures.
- Fracture characteristics are critical for predicting outcomes.
- Operative treatment, such as the Matti-Russe technique, is indicated for complex cases and pseudarthrosis.
- Distal scaphoid fractures are characteristic of childhood injuries.