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Occult scaphoid fracture: a diagnostic enigma
1Department of Orthopaedics, Government Medical College/Rajendra Hospital, Patiala, India.
Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Occult scaphoid fractures are common in wrist sprains. Immobilizing suspected scaphoid fractures for two weeks can help diagnose these hidden injuries.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Traumatology
- Radiology
Background:
- Wrist sprains are common injuries.
- Scaphoid fractures can be difficult to diagnose initially.
- Undiagnosed scaphoid fractures can lead to complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of occult scaphoid fractures in patients diagnosed with wrist sprains.
- To evaluate the efficacy of a two-week immobilization period for suspected scaphoid fractures.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study was conducted on 38 patients with clinical, nonradiological diagnoses of wrist sprains.
- Patients were immobilized in a plaster cast for two weeks.
- Follow-up assessment was performed at two weeks to identify fractures.
Main Results:
- Six out of 38 patients (15.8%) were diagnosed with a complete scaphoid fracture at the waist after two weeks of immobilization.
- This indicates a significant incidence of occult scaphoid fractures.
Conclusions:
- A high incidence of occult scaphoid fractures was observed in patients with suspected wrist sprains.
- A two-week immobilization period is recommended for suspected scaphoid fractures to aid diagnosis.