Percutaneous fixation of selected scaphoid fractures by dorsal approach

The aim of our study was to evaluate clinical, radiological and functional outcomes of selected cases of percutaneous fixation of scaphoid fractures via a dorsal approach. Percutaneous fixation by dorsal approach was done in 32 patients (mean age 32.2 years) involving both fresh and late scaphoid fracture presentations (mean 17 days). Fourteen cases of B1 type, ten cases of B2 and eight cases of C type (Herbert's classification) were treated. The patients were prospectively followed up clinically and radiologically for a minimum follow-up of 14 months (mean 16 months), and functional outcome and complications were assessed. All fractures united over an average of nine weeks. There was no avascular necrosis or screw cutout with preservation of wrist movement and grip strength. There were no injuries to any at risk anatomical structures. Percutaneous fixation of scaphoid fractures through dorsal approach gives good clinical and functional outcome in acute and chronic scaphoid fractures of B1, B2 and C types (Herbert's classification).