Scaphoid Fracture
A scaphoid fracture is a fracture in one of the small bones in the wrist. This small bone is one the carpal bones on the thumb side of the wrist. It is central to the mobility and stability in the wrist. The scaphoid has unique blood supply that makes it prone to not healing when fractured if not treated in a timely fashion.
Causes and risk factors
Trauma, most often fall on outstretched hand
Symptoms
Pain and swelling on the thumb side of the wrist
Severe pain when wrist or thumb is moved
Loss of motion in the area
Increased wrist pain after more than a day
Diagnosis and treatment
Scaphoid fractures are generally diagnosed by taking an x-ray picture of your wrist. Depending on the fracture location, pattern and displacement, Dr. Holt will discuss treatment options with you. Non displaced scaphoid fractures can often be treated non-operatively with prolonged casting, but often surgery is advised if there is any displacement to the fracture. Regardless of treatment, scaphoid fractures often take a prolonged time to heal and can prone to not healing due to their unique blood supply. If you think you may have a scaphoid fracture, it is important to seek care as early treatment can improve healing and outcome.
Scaphoid Fracture Surgical Information/Post Operative Instructions
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