Costo-Osteochondral Autograft for the Non-salvageable Proximal Scaphoid: A Systematic Review

Background: Scaphoid non-union is a challenging condition that can lead to chronic wrist pain, decreased range of motion (ROM) and functional impairment. One promising approach involves the use of costo-osteochondral rib autografts, offering a non-vascularised and structurally supportive environment for bone regeneration. This systematic review aims to evaluate the current evidence regarding the management of non-salvageable scaphoid proximal poles and non-union using rib costo-osteochondral autografts. Methods: A comprehensive search of electronic databases was conducted. Data extraction was performed independently by two authors. The primary outcomes were ROM, grip strength, pain, functional outcomes and complications. Results: A total of six studies were identified that met the inclusion criteria. A total of 101 patients had undergone scaphoid costo-osteochondral autografting with a rib donor. Postoperative active ROM arc had a mean of 112° (range: 78°-125°), with grip strength mean of 34 kg (range: 22-50 kg). Various functional outcome measures were reported, such as the QuickDASH, Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), with overall improvement noted for function and pain. Complications were reported in 10% of cases, including four donor site complications. Conclusions: The available literature supports the use of costo-osteochondral rib autografts to treat the non-salvageable proximal scaphoid, with short-term improvement in ROM and function. However, given the heterogeneity of the included studies and the limited number of high-quality randomised controlled trials, further research is needed to establish the optimal graft selection for scaphoid AVN or non-union. Level of Evidence: Level III (Therapeutic).