Scaphoid Fracture -
The #scaphoid #bone, the most commonly fractured #carpal bone, often breaks in its middle third. This injury typically occurs from a fall onto an outstretched, hyperextended, and radially deviated wrist. Pain in the anatomical snuffbox is a hallmark sign, suggesting a possible #scaphoid #fractures .
#Diagnosis
An X-ray is the first-line #diagnostics tool, with posteroanterior, lateral, oblique, and scaphoid-specific views. However, 15-20% of fractures may be missed initially, so if clinical suspicion is high and X-rays are negative, CT or MRI may be indicated.
#Treatment
All suspected fractures: Immobilize immediately in a thumb spica cast or splint, provide analgesia, and arrange an orthopedic follow-up within a week.
Nonoperative management: For stable, nondisplaced fractures ( less than 1 mm displacement), particularly in the distal pole, immobilization in a thumb spica cast for 6-8 weeks is effective.
Surgical management: Necessary for displaced fractures ( more than 1 mm), proximal pole fractures, carpal instability, or fractures older than 4 weeks. Techniques include percutaneous or open reduction and internal fixation.
#Complications
Scaphoid fractures carry risks of nonunion and avascular necrosis, making prompt diagnosis and proper immobilization crucial. Any post-trauma pain in the anatomical snuffbox should be managed as a potential scaphoid fracture until confirmed otherwise.
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