Simultaneous fractures of the distal radius and scaphoid

Simultaneous fractures of the distal radius and scaphoid are uncommon injuries for which the treatment is controversial. Nine patients with these fractures are presented. Five patients were available for long-term followup. In the series, there were five Colles and four Smith's fractures of the distal radius. All scaphoid fractures occurred at the anatomic waist. All injuries resulted from falls of considerable force producing hyperextension at the wrist. The ages of the patients ranged from 21 to 90 years (median, 34). All fractures were placed in a thumb spica cast with the wrist in neutral position. Five fractures required a second reduction of the radius and were placed in external skeletal fixation. No scaphoid fracture was displaced by this treatment, and all scaphoid fractures progressed to union. The principal deformity at followup was an average 16 degrees loss of volar tilt. Residual pain or functional disability was not noted. We conclude that these fractures can be successfully treated by reduction of the radius and immobilization by whatever means necessary to maintain an acceptable position. Scaphoid reduction and healing seemed unaffected by the method of treatment used to treat the distal radius fracture in this series.