A scaphoid fracture is a type of wrist fracture in which the scaphoid bone present in our wrist breaks. This bone is present near the base of the thumb. Our wrist comprises a number of bones and the scaphoid is one of the carpal bones. According to the reports, the most common cause of scaphoid fractures is falling on an outstretched hand. In some cases, automobile accidents can also break the scaphoid bone. In this post, we will be discussing scaphoid fractures in detail.

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Scaphoid Fractures – An Introduction

The scaphoid is among the most fractured carpus in the wrist and men between 20 and 30 years of age suffer scaphoid fracture the most. They account for around 15% of all wrist fractures. High-energy injuries often result in scaphoid fractures. As per the reports, around 3 months are required to recover from this type of fracture.

Who is More Prone to Scaphoid Fractures?

This type of fracture can affect anyone as anyone can fall or meet with an accident. These are the two common causes of scaphoid fractures. Well, studies have found that teens and young adults below 30 break their scaphoid bones the most. Besides this, people suffering from osteoporosis fall under the risk category for these types of fractures.

What Are the Symptoms Associated with These Fractures?

Common signs and symptoms of a scaphoid fracture include:

• Pain and swelling in the wrist
• Tenderness
• Difficulty in moving the wrist
• Bruising and discoloration at the fracture site
  

What Are the Clinical Features of Scaphoid Fractures?

A high-energy trauma causes a break(s) in the scaphoid bone and the patient comes with a complaint of sudden onset of pain in the wrist. In some cases, bruising may also be present. The pain will be experienced while palpating the scaphoid tubercule and telescoping of the thumb.

How Are Fractures in the Scaphoid Bone Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of scaphoid fracture is done with both physical examination and imaging tests. During the physical examination, the healthcare service provider will gently press on the injured site to notice the painful area and he will also ask the patient to move his/her thumb to examine the range of motion. Now, to confirm the fracture and its severity, certain imaging tests may be ordered:

• X-ray to confirm the fracture in the scaphoid and other nearby bones along with the fracture pattern.
• MRI to get a clear picture of the fractured bone along with the tissues around it.
• CT scan is generally ordered when surgery is required to get a clearer picture of the affected area.
  

How Scaphoid Fractures Are Treated?

Depending on the severity of the break, scaphoid fractures can be treated in several ways including:

Immobilization

A splint or a cast is applied to keep bones from moving and allow the fracture to heal. Non-displaced fractures can be managed with immobilization.

Closed Reduction

Displaced fractures that cannot be managed with immobilization may require closed reduction where the healthcare service provider with physically realigns the displaced bone. Local or general anesthesia may be given to curb pain during the procedure.

Surgery

Severe fractures required ORIF surgery that involves the use of pins, plates, wires, and bone screws to realign the bone and keep it in its true anatomical position.

A bone graft may be required in the case of severely displaced fractures.
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