Scaphoid (navicular) fracture of the wrist

This common fracture most frequently affects young males. In most cases, the fracture is found on initial examination. Occasionally, it is missed on the initial radiographic evaluation but becomes apparent on follow-up films. Although most scaphoid fractures respond to conservative therapy, some fail to heal. Nonunion of the scaphoid may respond to various nonoperative and operative techniques. In such cases, consultation with a hand surgeon is useful.