Scaphocapitate Fracture: Two Cases with Follow-Up over 5 Years

Background Combined scaphoid and capitate fractures of the wrist are rare entities, and delayed diagnosis is frequent. Scaphocapitate fractures may be associated with reversal of the capitate head 90° or 180° (Fenton syndrome). Different treatment options have been proposed, with variable results. Case Description We report two cases of scaphocapitate fractures of the wrist, diagnosed 3 and 15 days after the injury. The first patient suffered from Fenton syndrome, a combined displaced fracture of the waist of the scaphoid with 180° reversal of capitate head. The second patient had combined fractures of the scaphoid, capitate, and distal radius. In both our cases, anatomic reduction and internal fixation were achieved, resulting in union of all fractures. The long-term results, after 5.5 and 7 years respectively, were very satisfactory, both clinically and radiographically, without signs of avascular necrosis of the head of the capitate or the scaphoid. Literature Review Few reports of scaphocapitate fractures were found in literature. Mechanism of injury, treatment, and outcomes of the reported cases in correlation to our cases are discussed. Clinical Relevance Given the high rate of complications of scaphocapitate fractures, long-term follow-up is important to assess the natural history of the wrist joint after such injuries. The restoration of normal anatomic relationships can lead to a successful long-term functional outcome despite the severity of the injury.