[Indications for percutaneous screw fixation of scaphoid fractures]

A total of 198 patients with scaphoid fracture who were treated by percutaneous screw fixation were reexamined after a mean postoperative time of 82 months. Sound radiological union and clinical healing were found in 89% of the recent fractures, 81.8% of fractures with delayed or nonunion and in 42.8% with sclerotic nonunion. Based on our experience, good results can be anticipated if the fracture is anatomically reduced and the screw correctly placed. In cases of carpal collapse, sclerotic nonunion, and or a very small proximal fragment, an open fixation method should be used.