Scaphoid Proximal Pole Fracture Following Headless Screw Fixation

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Traumatology
• Bone Healing

Background:

• Headless screw fixation is a standard treatment for scaphoid fractures and nonunions.
• Intramedullary implants can alter bone biomechanics, potentially leading to complications.

Observation:

• A distinct fracture pattern of the scaphoid proximal pole was observed.
• These fractures originated at the headless screw insertion site in three young males with healed scaphoid nonunions.

Findings:

• The secondary fractures were consistently volar, proximal, and contiguous with the screw entry point.
• This specific fracture pattern has not been previously described in relation to screw fixation.

Implications:

• Hand surgeons need to be aware of this potential complication following antegrade headless screw fixation.
• Understanding this fracture pattern is crucial for appropriate management and treatment strategies.