Arthroscopic Bone Grafting for Scaphoid Nonunion: A Retrospective Study of 42 Cases

Background: The purpose of this retrospective study was to report outcomes of arthroscopic bone grafting and K-wire fixation to treat scaphoid non-union. Methods: We included in at two healthcare facilities, 42 consecutive patients (34 men, 8 women) with a mean age of 25 years (range 15-56 years) with scaphoid non-union of the proximal and middle third without intracarpal deformity or SNAC osteoarthritis. All patients were evaluated (pain, range of motion, strength, function, X-rays) by an independent examiner. Results: At the mean follow-up of 18 months (range 12-56), pain was significantly reduced from 7 to 1 on a visual analogue scale (out of 10). The scores on the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire and Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation were improved significantly. At the last review, grip strength was 83% of the contralateral side, the average wrist flexion-extension was 125° and the radioulnar deviation was 58°. Bone union was achieved in 37 cases (88%). The mean time of checking the bone union was 3 months (range, 2-8). Four patients required revision surgery because of failed union. Conclusions: Based on our findings, we found that this procedure can be used as a surgical treatment for scaphoid non-union of the proximal and middle third without intracarpal deformity or osteoarthritis. The arthroscopic bone grafting is a reliable, effective, and minimally invasive procedure.