Scaphoid Fixation Impormasyon Pahintulot

Ang pahinang ito ay isinalin ng makina at hindi pa nasusuri ng isang doktor. Ang bersyong Ingles ang siyang opisyal.

Bakit iminungkahi ang operasyong ito

Si Dr Kieran Hirpara, isang upper-limb surgeon sa Mater Private Hospital Rockhampton, ay itinutugma ang gamutan sa iyong partikular na pinsala. Ang scaphoid ay isang maliit na buto malapit sa base ng iyong hinlalaki, sa bahagi ng hinlalaki ng iyong pulso. Ang scaphoid fixation ay nangangahulugang pagpapanatiling hindi gumagalaw ng nabaling buto gamit ang isang maliit na screw upang ito ay gumaling. Karaniwan namin itong iminumungkahi kapag ang bali ay naurong mula sa kinalalagyan nito, o kapag ang buto ay mabagal gumaling o hindi gumaling sa kabuuan.

Ang mga pasyente ay karaniwang nirerefer sa aming klinika ng kanilang GP; kung isang physiotherapist ang nagmungkahi na magpatingin sa amin, kakailanganin mo pa rin ng referral mula sa iyong GP upang maging eligible para sa Medicare rebate. Sa pagbisita sa klinika, kumukuha kami ng history, sinusuri ang iyong pulso at nag-aayos ng mga scan kung kinakailangan. Isang cast ang madalas na sinusubukan muna para sa mga bali na hindi naurong. Ang operasyon ay maaaring irekomenda agad para sa ilang mga pinsala, at isinasaalang-alang din ito kapag ang cast ay hindi nagbigay ng sapat na paggaling. Ang layunin ay isang pulso na gumagaling nang maayos, gumagalaw nang maayos at nakakabuhat ng load nang walang sakit.

Bago ang operasyon

Sa mga araw bago ang operasyon, kumpirmado namin ang plano sa iyo at titingnan kung aling mga scan ang kinakailangan. Karamihan sa mga tao ay nagkaroon na ng X-ray, at ang ilan ay kakailanganin ng MRI o ultrasound scan upang malinaw naming makita ang bali bago kami mag-opera. Bibigyan ka ng mga tagubilin tungkol sa pag-aayuno: walang pagkain o inumin sa loob ng pitong oras bago ang iyong oras ng operasyon. Humihingi kami ng pitong oras sa halip na mas maikling panahon upang mauna ka namin kung maagang matapos ang listahan sa theatre. Ang ilang mga gamot ay maaaring kailangang itigil muna, at sasabihin namin sa iyo kung alin ang mga ito at kailan. Magdala ng listahan ng lahat ng iyong iniinom. Mag-ayos ng sasakyan pauwi, dahil hindi mo kayang magmaneho nang mag-isa. Magsuot ng maluwag at komportableng damit. Kung mayroon kang iba pang kondisyong medikal, maaaring kailanganin mo ng mga blood test o pagsusuri kasama ang anaesthetist.

Sa araw ng operasyon

Pupunta kayo sa surgical admissions unit ng ospital, kung saan kayo ay i-che-check in at ihahanda para sa theatre. Makikipagkita kayo sa anaesthetist, na susuri sa inyong kalusugan at sasagot sa anumang huling mga katanungan. Ang operasyong ito ay ginagawa sa ilalim ng general anaesthetic. Kayo ay tulog nang tulog habang isinasagawa ang operasyon. Ang ilang pasyente ay maaaring bigyan din ng regional nerve block para sa pagpapaginhawa ng sakit pagkatapos ng operasyon; ang anaesthetist ang magpapasya sa araw na iyon base sa inyong indibidwal na kalagayan. Pagkatapos ay dadalhin kayo sa operating theatre, kung saan isasagawa ang operasyon.

Magigising kayo sa recovery area, kung saan babantayan kayo ng mga nurse habang nawawala ang bisa ng anaesthetic. Maaaring may suporta ang inyong pulso, at maaari kayong makaramdam ng kaunting discomfort habang nawawala ang pamamanhid. Kapag stable na kayo, maaaring pumunta kayo sa ward o uuwi sa mismong araw na iyon, depende sa procedure at kung paano ang takbo ng inyong recovery. Dahil sumailalim kayo sa general anaesthetic, kakailanganin ninyo ang inyong naayos na sasakyan pauwi at dapat magpahinga sa natitirang bahagi ng araw.

Ano ang kinapapalooban ng operasyon

Mayroong dalawang paraan kung paano namin maaabot ang nabaling buto, at pipiliin namin ang angkop para sa iyong fracture. Para sa bali na hindi naalis sa puwesto, maaari kaming gumamit ng percutaneous approach. Nangangahulugan ito na ang screw ay ipinapasok sa pamamagitan ng balat nang walang pormal na hiwa. Para sa bali kung saan kailangang makita at ibalik sa linya ang mga piraso, o kung saan may idaragdag na bone graft, gagawa kami ng isang hiwa sa ibabaw ng pulso at doon magtatrabaho.

Kapag nakikita na namin ang buto, hahawakan namin ang fracture gamit ang isang screw na ipinapasok sa haba ng scaphoid. Pinipitpit ng screw ang mga nabaling piraso nang magkasama upang hindi sila gumalaw habang gumagaling. Kung ang bali ay luma na, hindi gumaling, o may nawalang buto, magdaragdag kami ng bone graft upang punan ang puwang at hikayatin ang paggaling. Kung mahina ang suplay ng dugo sa nabaling piraso, maaari kaming gumamit ng vascularised bone graft sa halip. Ito ay isang maliit na piraso ng buto na inililipat kasama ang sarili nitong mga blood vessel na nakakabit pa, kaya nagdadala ito ng bagong suplay ng dugo. Pipili kami sa pagitan ng mga opsyong ito batay sa ipinapakita ng iyong mga scan.

Isasara namin ang sugat gamit ang mga tahi. Magkakaroon ka ng dressing sa ibabaw ng pulso, at hinihiling namin na panatilihin itong nakalagay sa loob ng humigit-kumulang 10 araw.

Pagkatapos ng operasyon

Karamihan sa mga pasyente ay nananatili ng isang gabi sa ospital pagkatapos ng operasyong ito, bagaman ang ilan ay nakakauwi sa mismong araw. Magigising kayo sa recovery ward, kung saan babantayan kayo ng mga nars habang nawawala ang bisa ng anaesthetic. Ang inyong pulso ay susuportahan ng isang splint o cast, at magkakaroon ng dressing sa ibabaw ng sugat. Ang sakit ay karaniwang nakokontrol sa pamamagitan ng mga simpleng paraan, at sisiguraduhin naming komportable kayo bago kayo umalis. Maaari na kayong gumalaw sa oras na maramdaman ninyong kaya na ninyo, bagaman dahan-dahan lamang sa unang isang o dalawang araw. Mangyaring mag-ayos ng isang tao na sasama sa inyo sa unang 24 oras pagkauwi ninyo. Hinahayaan naming nakalagay ang dressing sa loob ng humigit-kumulang 10 araw; mangyaring huwag itong tanggalin bago ang panahong iyon maliban kung sinabi namin sa inyo. Papalitan o tatanggalin namin ito kapag nakita namin kayo.

Paggaling

Sa unang ilang araw, sasakit ang iyong pulso at maaaring mamaga. Karaniwang naaayos ito ng simpleng pain relief at pahinga. Ang pagpapanatiling nakataas ng iyong kamay habang nakaupo o nakahiga ay nakatutulong upang mabawasan ang pamamaga. Unti-unting nababawasan ang discomfort habang lumilipas ang mga araw.

Ang iyong pulso ay nakalagay sa isang splint o cast, kaya kakailanganin mo ng tulong sa ilang pang-araw-araw na gawain sa simula. Ang pagbibihis, pagluluto, at pagdadala ng mga bagay gamit ang isang kamay ay nangangailangan ng kaunting pagpaplano. Maaari ka nang gumalaw sa loob ng bahay sa oras na maramdaman mong kaya mo na, bagaman dahan-dahan lamang sa unang isa o dalawang araw. Kapag natanggal na ang dressing sa iyong review, gagabayan ka ng iyong hand therapist na si Ruby Doolan sa Extend Rehabilitation sa iyong mga ehersisyo at isusuot ang anumang splint na iyong kakailanganin. Ang hand therapy ay tumutulong sa iyong pulso na maibalik ang paggalaw at grip strength habang gumagaling ang buto.

Hindi ka maaaring magmaneho habang nakasuot ang cast. Kapag natanggal na ang cast at binigyan ka na ng clearance ng iyong surgeon, maaari kang magbasa nang higit pa sa aming pahina tungkol sa pagmamaneho pagkatapos ng upper-limb surgery. Maaari ka nang bumalik sa trabaho at iba pang mga aktibidad ayon sa kakayahan ng iyong pulso, nang unti-unting dinadagdagan. Ang mga mas mabibigat na gawain at sports ay maaaring balikan kapag gumaling na ang buto at nararamdaman mong malakas na ang iyong grip nang walang sakit.

Ang bawat tao ay gumagaling sa magkakaibang bilis, at ang iyong timeline ay maaaring maiba sa aming inilalarawan. Gagabayan ka ng iyong surgeon at ng iyong therapist sa bawat review, at ipapaalam nila sa iyo kung kailan na ligtas na gumawa ng higit pa.

Ano ang maaaring maging problema

Karamihan sa mga pasyente ay gumagaling nang maayos, ngunit paminsan-minsan ay maaaring magkaroon ng mga problema. Binabantayan kayo nang maigi ng inyong surgeon at ng team upang maagang matukoy ang anumang isyu.

Ang pangunahing binabantayan namin ay ang hindi paghilom ng buto, o ang paghilom na mas mabagal kaysa sa inaasahan. Maaari kayong makaramdam ng malalim at kumikirot na sakit sa pulso na hindi nawawala gaya ng karaniwang nangyayari sa isang naghihilom na bali, o pananakit kapag hinahawakan ang parehong bahagi malapit sa base ng inyong hinlalaki. Ang ilang tao ay nakakaramdam ng parang pagkiskis (grinding sensation) kapag iginagalaw ang pulso o kapag nilalagyan ng bigat ang kamay. Kung ang buto ay hindi nagdugtong pagkatapos ng makatwirang panahon, makikita namin ito sa inyong mga scan at pag-uusapan namin kayo tungkol sa mga susunod na hakbang. Ang bali na hindi nagamot sa loob ng apat na linggo o higit pa ay mas mahirap paghilumin, at ang mga bali malapit sa dulo ng buto na pinakamalapit sa forearm ang pinakamahirap sa lahat. Ito ang dahilan kung bakit namin kayo hinihiling na pumunta agad kung mapinsala ninyo ang inyong pulso, at kung bakit namin binabantayan nang maigi ang pag-unlad ng inyong paghilom.

Kung kayo ay sasailalim sa operasyon para sa butong hindi naghilom, maaari kaming gumamit ng graft na may sariling supply ng dugo upang magdala ng sariwang dugo sa bahaging iyon. Ang mga problema mula sa ganitong uri ng graft ay hindi karaniwan. Ang pangunahing dapat malaman ay ang bahagi ng pamamanhid o pakiramdam na tila tinutusok ng karayom (pins and needles) sa likod ng bahagi ng pulso na malapit sa hinlalaki, na sa karamihan ng mga kaso ay pansamantala lamang. Kung mapansin ninyo ito, banggitin ito sa inyong susunod na review.

Kung ang buto ay hindi na kayang isalba, ang ilang tao ay sumasailalim sa pagtatanggal ng mga nabaling piraso at pinagdudugtong ang mga natitirang buto sa pulso. Ito ay nakakaalis ng sakit para sa maraming tao, at ang resulta ay nananatili sa loob ng maraming taon sa halip na mawala.

Kung mapansin ninyo ang sakit na lumalala sa halip na bumubuti, bagong pamamaga, o pulso na hindi kayang magdala ng bigat, makipag-ugnayan sa aming klinika sa halip na maghintay para sa inyong susunod na appointment. Ang table ng mga komplikasyon sa pahinang ito ay naglilista ng mga tipikal na rate kung nais ninyo ang mga detalye.

Kailan dapat tumawag sa amin

Tumawag sa amin kung ang iyong pananakit ay lumalala sa halip na bumubuti, o kung ang bagong pamamaga ay hindi nawawala. Tumawag sa amin kung mapansin ang pamumula, pag-init, o may lumalabas na likido (discharge) sa paligid ng sugat, o kung nakararamdam ka ng lagnat. Tumawag sa amin kung ang iyong mga daliri o hinlalaki ay namamanhid, kumikiliti, o namumutla, o kung hindi mo na sila maigalaw. Pumunta sa emergency kung mayroon kang biglaang matinding pananakit, pamamaga o pananakit ng binti (calf), o kahirapan sa paghinga. Kung ang iyong cast ay masyadong masikip, o ang pananakit ng iyong pulso ay hindi nababawasan gaya ng karaniwang nangyayari sa naghihilom na bali, makipag-ugnayan sa aming klinika sa halip na maghintay para sa iyong susunod na appointment.

Saan maaaring magbasa nang higit pa tungkol sa kondisyon

Ang pahinang ito ay tungkol sa operasyon mismo. Ang kondisyong ginagamot nito, kabilang ang kung ano ang ipinapakita ng ebidensya tungkol sa kung kailan nakatutulong ang operasyon at kung kailan hindi, ay tinalakay nang mas detalyado sa pahinang Scaphoid Fracture.


Evidence & references

This is the clinical evidence summary written for health professionals. It is technical, and it lists the research this page was built from. You do not need to read it to understand your treatment or to make a decision about it.

Overview

  • Fractures of the carpus other than the scaphoid are frequently missed on initial presentation [1].
  • Diagnosis of carpal fractures other than the scaphoid requires a high index of suspicion [1].
  • Diagnosis of carpal fractures other than the scaphoid requires tailored imaging [1].
  • The specific indications for percutaneous screw fixation of nondisplaced scaphoid fractures must be determined in larger randomized, prospective studies [2].
  • The risks and benefits of percutaneous screw fixation of nondisplaced scaphoid fractures must be determined in larger randomized, prospective studies [2].
  • A technique described for avoiding overlong screws is applicable to any situation where the exact screw length is of critical importance [3].
  • The complex scaphoid anatomy with its waist might alter the strategy of fracture fixation [4].
  • The complex scaphoid anatomy with its waist might alter the strategy of fracture education and research [4].
  • In a series of 24 patients with acute scaphoid fractures undergoing arthroscopically assisted reduction and percutaneous fixation, 15 presented with associated ligamentous and/or chondral/osteochondral injuries [5].

Anatomy & Pathophysiology

Bony Anatomy

  • The scaphoid is a small, irregular S-shaped tubular bone located in the proximal carpal row on the radial aspect of the wrist [22].
  • The scaphoid lies entirely within the wrist joint at a 45-degree plane to the longitudinal and horizontal axis of the wrist [22].
  • The scaphoid articulates with the trapezium and trapezoid on its distal surface, the radius on its proximal/lateral surface, and the capitate and lunate on its medial surface [22].
  • The proximal articular surface of the scaphoid is convex and articulates with the radius [22].
  • The capitate head articulates with a sulcus on the radial articular surface of the scaphoid, providing a socket-like fit [22].
  • The distal pole of the scaphoid sits ulnarly angulated relative to the proximal pole due to gentle pronation and flexion [22].
  • The distal articular surface of the scaphoid contains two distinct facets for the trapezium and trapezoid, forming the STT joint [22].
  • Over 80% of the scaphoid surface is covered with articular cartilage [22].
  • The scaphoid is ridged across its nonarticular dorsoradial surface, which serves as the insertion point for the dorsal component of the scapholunate and intercarpal ligaments [22].
  • The complex anatomy of the scaphoid waist may alter the strategy of fracture fixation, education, and research [4].

Vascular Supply

  • The blood supply of the scaphoid arises from two vascular pedicles originating from the scaphoid branches of the radial artery [22].
  • The dorsal branch enters via foramina along the spiral groove and dorsal ridge, supplying 70% to 80% of the scaphoid proximally, including the proximal pole [22].
  • The volar branch enters via the scaphoid tubercle and supplies the remaining 20% to 30% of the distal scaphoid [22].
  • The waist of the scaphoid has minimal or no perforating vasculature [22].
  • No vessels perforate the proximal dorsal cartilaginous area or through the scapholunate ligament [22].
  • Only 67% of scaphoid bones have arterial foramina throughout their length, including the distal, middle, and proximal thirds [27].
  • 13% of scaphoid bones have blood supply predominantly in the distal third [27].
  • 20% of scaphoid bones have most arterial foramina in the waist area with no more than a single foramen near the proximal third [27].
  • One third of scaphoid fractures occurring in the proximal third may be without adequate blood supply [27].
  • The prevalence of osteonecrosis can be 35% in fractures at the proximal pole level [27].

Ligaments and Kinematics

  • The radioscapocapitate ligament does not attach to the bone itself but crosses the waist, acting as a sling that allows rotation [22].
  • The RSC ligament acts as a fulcrum over which the scaphoid waist fractures [14].
  • There are no tendon attachments to the scaphoid [22].
  • The scaphoid acts as a midcarpal joint "bridge" linking and synchronizing the motions of the proximal and distal carpal rows as part of the key intercalated segment [22].
  • Motion of the scaphoid includes rotation proximally and gliding distally, while providing stability to the midcarpal joint [22].
  • The normal intrascaphoid angle is 24 degrees [33].

Pathophysiology of Injury

  • Scaphoid fractures are caused by a fall on the outstretched palm, resulting in severe hyperextension and slight radial deviation of the wrist [27].
  • Hyperextension past 95 degrees is the usual position of injury for scaphoid fractures [33].
  • With the hyperextension mechanism, a fracture usually begins at the volar waist with tensile failure, propagating to the dorsal surface with compression loading until failure occurs [33].
  • The scaphoid usually fractures on tension at the radial-palmar side [27].
  • During injury, the proximal pole locks in the scaphoid fossa of the radius while the distal pole moves excessively dorsal [27].
  • 60% to 80% of scaphoid fractures occur at the scaphoid waist or midportion [27].
  • Snuffbox tenderness applies predominantly to waist fractures, which represent 70% of scaphoid fractures [14].
  • Proximal pole fractures represent 20% of scaphoid fractures [14].
  • Distal pole fractures represent 10% of scaphoid fractures [14].
  • 17% of patients with scaphoid fractures have other fractures of the carpus and forearm, including transscaphoid perilunar dislocations, trapezium fractures, Bennett fractures, radial head fractures, lunate dislocations, and distal radius fractures [27].
  • Proximal scaphoid fractures result from dorsal subluxation during forced hyperextension [33].
  • Carpal dislocations and scapholunate ligament tears are reproduced with wrist extension and ulnar deviation combined with intercarpal supination [33].
  • 15 of 24 patients with acute scaphoid fractures presented with associated ligamentous and/or chondral/osteochondral injuries [5].

Healing Potential and Nonunion

  • The reduced capacity for periosteal healing due to extensive articular cartilage coverage increases the tendency for delayed union and nonunion [22].
  • Proximal fractures are associated with at least temporary disruption of the interosseous blood supply to the proximal pole [22].
  • Fractures in the proximal pole take longer to heal and usually have higher rates of nonunion [27].
  • Nonunion occurs in 10% to 15% of all scaphoid fractures [33].
  • The risk of nonunion increases with delay of treatment for more than 4 weeks [33].
  • The risk of nonunion increases with proximal pole fractures [33].
  • The risk of nonunion increases with fracture displacement greater than 1 mm [33].
  • The risk of nonunion increases with osteonecrosis [33].
  • The risk of nonunion increases with tobacco use [33].
  • The risk of nonunion increases with associated carpal instability, specifically dorsal intercalated segmental instability (DISI) with a scapholunate angle >60 degrees and a capitolunate angle >15 degrees [33].
  • Nonunion rates for nondisplaced waist fractures treated with casting are 5% to 12% [33].
  • Nonunion rates for displaced scaphoid fractures treated nonoperatively reach 50% [33].
  • Untreated displaced waist fractures angulate as the volar bone is reabsorbed, yielding a "humpback" flexion deformity [33].
  • The resultant radial column shortening and extension of the proximal scaphoid pole releases the lunate to rotate into DISI under the influence of the attached triquetrum [33].
  • Untreated scaphoid nonunion predictably progresses to arthritic change termed scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (SNAC) [33].
  • Arthritic change in SNAC arises at the radial styloid articulation with the distal scaphoid pole (stage I), followed by degeneration of the scaphocapitate joint (stage II), and ultimately the midcarpal joint (stage III) [33].
  • Arthritic changes have been found in 97% of patients assessed at least 5 years after injury, with the degree of change proportionate to the duration of nonunion [33].
  • In a 30-year follow-up review, 10% of patients with scaphoid fractures treated with thumb spica short-arm casts developed nonunion [33].
  • Of those who developed nonunion, 60% demonstrated radiographic evidence of radiocarpal osteoarthritis, while only 2% of the healed group demonstrated degenerative change [33].

Classification

  • Fractures of the carpus other than the scaphoid are frequently missed on initial presentation and require a high index of suspicion with tailored imaging for diagnosis [1].
  • The complex scaphoid anatomy with its waist might alter the strategy of fracture fixation, education and research [4].
  • In a series of 24 patients with acute scaphoid fractures, 15 presented with associated ligamentous and/or chondral/osteochondral injuries [5].

Clinical Presentation

History and Mechanism

  • Patients classically present with wrist pain following a fall onto the outstretched hand, with almost 90% recalling a hyperextension injury [35].
  • The usual mechanism of injury is forced hyperextension of the wrist [15].
  • There is usually a history of trauma, such as falling on an outstretched hand, collision of the wrist against a person or heavy obstacle, or possibly a direct blow against an object [14].
  • Patients present with a history of hyperextension to the wrist, often following a fall, sports, or punch injury [35].
  • It is important to determine a history of previous trauma to the scaphoid and not treat a nonunion as if it is an acute fracture [35].
  • In chronic injuries, athletes may complain of an inability to perform a push-up [39].

Physical Examination Findings

  • The patient usually presents with pain on the radial side of the wrist [14].
  • There may be swelling on the radial side as well [14].
  • There may be limited range of motion and pain when applying extended wrist loading or positioning the wrist in extreme positions of flexion or extension [14].
  • Wrists with acute fractures may have swelling and bruising in the radial aspect of the wrist [14].
  • Wrists with chronic injury may have swelling in the dorsoradial wrist [14].
  • Generally, pain, swelling, ecchymosis, and tenderness around the region of the scaphoid may be present in the acute phase [35].
  • There may be slight fullness in the anatomical snuffbox [15].
  • Precisely localized tenderness in the anatomical snuffbox is an important diagnostic sign [15].
  • "Snuffbox tenderness" has become synonymous with scaphoid fracture, but this applies predominantly to waist fractures, which represent 70% of scaphoid fractures [14].
  • The second most common type of scaphoid fracture is a proximal pole fracture, at 20% [14].
  • The least common is a distal pole fracture, at 10% [14].
  • Fractures tend to occur at the waist partly because the RSC ligament acts as a fulcrum over which the scaphoid waist fractures [14].
  • The full physical examination of the scaphoid bone should include all of its parts: the waist, distal pole, and proximal pole [14].
  • To palpate the anatomic snuffbox for the waist examination, palpate just distal to the radial styloid in the “soft spot” [14].
  • The distal pole should be palpated at the scaphoid tubercle on the palmar aspect of the wrist [14].
  • To palpate the distal pole, place the index finger in the anatomic snuffbox and place the thumb on the palmar aspect just distal to the anatomic snuffbox [14].
  • With radial deviation of the wrist, the prominent bone palpated at the scaphoid tubercle should move palmarly toward the examiner’s thumb [14].
  • The proximal pole is palpated dorsally in line with the second ray just distal to the dorsal radius lip [14].
  • The scapholunate ligament is in line between the second and third rays just distal to the dorsal radius lip and corresponds to the 3-4 wrist arthroscopy portal [14].
  • The proximal pole is just radial to the scapholunate ligament/3-4 portal area [14].
  • Pain on longitudinal compression of the thumb (scaphoid axial compression test) is also a sign of scaphoid fracture [14].
  • Examination must include pressure backwards over the scaphoid tubercle, palpation over the proximal pole, and telescoping of the thumb base [15].
  • If any of the signs of snuffbox tenderness, scaphoid tubercle pressure, proximal pole palpation, or thumb telescoping are positive, the suspicion for a scaphoid fracture should be high [15].
  • Pain and swelling can be subtle in the anatomic snuffbox and often these fractures present late [38].
  • Evaluation for scaphoid fracture includes physical examination, examining for pain in the anatomic snuffbox or over the scaphoid tubercle [38].
  • On physical examination, tenderness over the anatomic snuffbox or pain with resisted pronation prevents the surgeon from ruling out a scaphoid fracture [39].

Diagnostic Performance of Clinical Signs

  • If all three tests of anatomic snuffbox tenderness, scaphoid tubercle tenderness, and scaphoid axial compression test are positive, there is 87% to 100% sensitivity and 74% specificity for scaphoid fracture [14].
  • Anatomical snuffbox tenderness has a sensitivity of 87–100% and a specificity of 3–98% [35].
  • Axial compression of the thumb has a sensitivity of 48–100% and a specificity of 22–97% [35].
  • Scaphoid tubercle tenderness has a sensitivity of 82–100% and a specificity of 17–57% [35].
  • Pain on ulnar deviation has a sensitivity of 67–100% and a specificity of 17–60% [35].
  • Pain on radial deviation has a sensitivity of 67–90% and a specificity of 31–42% [35].
  • Reduced range of movement of the thumb has a sensitivity of 65–66% and a specificity of 38–59% [35].
  • Thumb–index finger pinch has a sensitivity of 75–79% and a specificity of 44–76% [35].
  • No single sign has been found to be adequately sensitive or specific for scaphoid fracture [35].
  • ASB tenderness is oversensitive and has poor specificity [35].
  • In a study of 246 patients with a suspected fracture of the scaphoid, ASB tenderness was found to have a sensitivity of 90% and a specificity of 40% [35].
  • In the same study of 246 patients, scaphoid tubercle tenderness had a sensitivity of 87% and specificity of 57% [35].
  • In a prospective analysis of 73 patients with a suspected scaphoid fracture, the negative predictive value (NPV) of ASB pain on ulnar deviation of the pronated wrist was 100% [35].
  • Patients with a negative test for ASB pain on ulnar deviation of the pronated wrist could be safely discharged at presentation as they did not have a scaphoid fracture [35].
  • The use of one clinical sign in isolation was insufficient for the diagnosis of a fracture [35].
  • A combination of ASB tenderness, scaphoid tubercle tenderness, and ASB pain on longitudinal compression of the thumb generated a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 74% [35].
  • The combination of ASB tenderness, scaphoid tubercle tenderness, and ASB pain on longitudinal compression of the thumb was valid only for the first 24 hours after injury [35].
  • Pain on thumb–index finger pinch and ASB pain on pronation of the forearm were most suggestive of a true scaphoid fracture [35].
  • The best predictors of fracture within 72 hours of injury were the absence of pain on ulnar deviation of the wrist and pain on thumb–index finger pinch [35].
  • Scaphoid tubercle tenderness was most predictive at week 2 [35].
  • A clinical scaphoid score (CSS) uses three clinical tests: tenderness in the ASB with the wrist in ulnar deviation (3 points), tenderness over the scaphoid tubercle (2 points), and pain upon longitudinal compression of the thumb (1 point) [35].
  • Patients with a CSS of 4 or higher require an MRI [35].

Occult Fractures and Initial Assessment

  • Up to 30% to 40% of scaphoid fractures are not identified on initial assessment and investigation with standard four-view radiographs and are thus classified as having a suspected fracture [35].
  • Patients who are subsequently found to have a fracture confirmed on repeated assessment and radiologic imaging, most frequently at 10 to 14 days after injury, are said to have had an occult fracture of the scaphoid [35].
  • In these cases, the treating surgeon must balance employing immobilization and restriction of activities in a predominantly young and active population against the risks of nonunion and arthrosis associated with an undiagnosed and untreated scaphoid fracture [35].
  • Radiographs are often negative at initial presentation approximately 25% of the time [39].
  • Any history of wrist trauma and tenderness or decreased range of motion should increase suspicion [39].

Investigations

Clinical Examination

  • Patients with scaphoid fractures usually present with pain on the radial side of the wrist and a history of trauma such as falling on an outstretched hand [14].
  • Acute scaphoid fractures may present with swelling and bruising in the radial aspect of the wrist, while chronic injuries may present with swelling in the dorsoradial wrist [14].
  • Snuffbox tenderness is predominantly associated with waist fractures, which represent 70% of scaphoid fractures [14].
  • Proximal pole fractures account for 20% of scaphoid fractures, and distal pole fractures account for 10% [14].
  • The physical examination for scaphoid fracture includes palpation of the anatomic snuffbox, the scaphoid tubercle, and the proximal pole [14].
  • Pain on longitudinal compression of the thumb (scaphoid axial compression test) is a sign of scaphoid fracture [14].
  • If anatomic snuffbox tenderness, scaphoid tubercle tenderness, and the scaphoid axial compression test are all positive, the sensitivity for scaphoid fracture is 87% to 100% and the specificity is 74% [14].
  • Slight fullness in the anatomical snuffbox with precisely localized tenderness is an important diagnostic sign for scaphoid fracture [15].
  • The clinical examination for scaphoid fracture must include pressure backwards over the scaphoid tubercle, palpation over the proximal pole, and telescoping of the thumb base [15].
  • Dorsal swelling of the wrist, tenderness in the anatomic snuffbox, and painful dorsiflexion of the wrist or extension of the thumb are common clinical signs of scaphoid fracture [30].

Imaging

  • Standard X-rays for scaphoid fracture evaluation should include AP, lateral, and two oblique views [15].
  • Scaphoid fractures may not be visible on initial X-rays in the first few days after injury but usually become clearer two weeks later due to bone resorption and slight displacement [15].
  • CT scans are more sensitive than plain radiography for diagnosing scaphoid fractures and are useful for confirming fragment alignment if surgery is planned or confirming union [15].
  • MRI is the definitive method to confirm or exclude a diagnosis of scaphoid fracture if the technique is available [15].
  • Plain radiography is approximately 50% sensitive for the detection of a scaphoid fracture [30].
  • If a scaphoid fracture is suggested but radiographs are negative, up to 30% of patients may have positive follow-up radiographs at 2 weeks [30].
  • MRI is more sensitive than CT for making the diagnosis of scaphoid fracture [30].
  • A normal MRI study as early as 2 days after injury has a negative predictive value of 100% for scaphoid fracture [30].
  • CT or MRI may be required to see lunate fractures that are difficult to detect on plain radiography [25].
  • CT oriented in the longitudinal axis of the scaphoid with 1-mm cuts can be helpful to evaluate for bridging trabeculae when healing cannot be determined with certainty by standard radiographic examination [16].
  • Computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging can be helpful as an adjunct to standard x-rays to evaluate the cartilage of the radiolunate joint and confirm the SLAC stage [31].
  • The diagnosis of osteonecrosis in scaphoid nonunion can be challenging because of the limited sensitivity of imaging modalities, including contrast-enhanced MRI [32].
  • The presence of large cavitary lesions or cysts with bone resorption around the midwaist to proximal pole suggests that the bone has a compromised blood supply [32].
  • A comparison of the carpal height to that of the contralateral wrist allows the extent of collapse and scaphoid shortening to be estimated [32].

Treatment

  • The specific indications for and the risks and benefits of percutaneous screw fixation of nondisplaced scaphoid fractures must be determined in larger randomized, prospective studies [2].
  • A described technique is applicable to any situation where the exact screw length is of critical importance [3].
  • In a series of 24 patients with acute scaphoid fractures, 15 presented with associated ligamentous and/or chondral/osteochondral injuries during arthroscopically assisted reduction and percutaneous fixation [5].
  • Arthroscopic treatment of a juvenile tillaux fracture is technically feasible, allows accurate reconstruction of the weight bearing surface of the joint, and enables secure internal fixation of the fracture [6].
  • Regardless of fixation strategy, posterior ring reduction and stabilization is crucial for anterior pelvic ring injuries [7].
  • Percutaneous screw fixation for acetabular fractures with quadrilateral plate involvement using three-dimensional fluoroscopy navigation is clinically feasible, allowing the quadrilateral plate to be anchored by percutaneous screws and enabling some degree of fracture gap reduction [8].
  • The intrinsic instability of hexapod external fixation devices leads to higher shear forces which may cause failure, delayed union, or pseudarthrosis [9].
  • Immediate exploration is proposed for open fractures, irreducible fractures, unacceptable reduction, associated vascular injuries, radial nerve palsy after manipulation, or intractable neurogenic pain in the context of humerus shaft fracture [10].
  • A small clamp has been devised to maintain the reduction of bone fragments whilst they are being fixed [11].
  • Parallel placement of 2 plates in the sagittal plane is as strong or stronger than the 90°/90° orientation for distal humeral fracture fixation [17].
  • Linking plates together through the bone offers the greatest biomechanical stability for comminuted distal humeral fractures [17].
  • A standard modified Henry approach was performed to expose the malunion of the distal radius in a patient-specific ramp-guide technique for opening-wedge osteotomies [41].
  • In the described distal radius osteotomy technique, K-wires were used to define proximal screw hole positions after applying a pre-reduction guide [41].
  • In the described distal radius osteotomy technique, less than half of the planned osteotomy was performed without losing the connection and position of the distal fragment [41].
  • In the described distal radius osteotomy technique, a ramp-guide was fixed proximally using K-wires to guarantee accurate guide position [41].
  • In the described distal radius osteotomy technique, a plate was latched on the ramp in the negative footprint and temporarily fixated with a cortical screw [41].
  • In the described distal radius osteotomy technique, drilling was performed using conventional angular-stable sleeves and the plate was attached to the distal fragment with locking screws [41].
  • In the described distal radius osteotomy technique, the ramp-guide was detached from the plate after losing the ramp-screw and removal in the proximal direction to complete the osteotomy [41].
  • In the described distal radius osteotomy technique, reduction of the plate was performed with the fixated distal fragment in the pre-defined proximal screw holes on the shaft [41].
  • In the described distal radius osteotomy technique, fluoroscopy was used to verify reduction and screw lengths prior to wound closure [41].
  • In the described distal radius osteotomy technique, a volar splint was applied on the wrist post wound closure [41].
  • In the described distal radius osteotomy technique, a two-week postoperative clinical control was scheduled with suture removal [41].
  • In the described distal radius osteotomy technique, aftercare was conducted with immobilization in a splint and functional treatment provided by a hand therapist for the first eight weeks [41].
  • The clinical results of local anaesthesia in the reduction of Colles' fracture should make an interesting and useful study [44].

Complications

  • In a series of 24 patients with acute scaphoid fractures undergoing arthroscopically assisted reduction and percutaneous fixation, 15 patients presented with associated ligamentous and/or chondral/osteochondral injuries [5].
  • The complex anatomy of the scaphoid waist may alter the strategy of fracture fixation [4].

Recovery

  • The technique described for avoiding overlong screws is applicable to any situation where the exact screw length is of critical importance [3].

Key Evidence

  • [L5] Fractures of the carpus other than the scaphoid are frequently missed on initial presentation and require a high index of suspicion with tailored imaging for diagnosis. [1] (10.5435/jaaos-d-20-00062)
  • [L1] The specific indications for and the risks and benefits of percutaneous screw fixation of such fractures must be determined in larger randomized, prospective studies. [2] (10.2106/00004623-200104000-00001)
  • [L5] The technique described is applicable to any situation where the exact screw length is of critical importance. [3] (10.1016/0020-1383(96)00024-1)
  • [L4] The complex scaphoid anatomy with its waist might alter the strategy of fracture fixation, education and research. [4] (10.1186/s13018-021-02330-8)
  • [L4] In this series, 15 of 24 patients with acute scaphoid fractures presented with associated ligamentous and/or chondral/osteochondral injuries. [5] (10.1016/j.arthro.2008.01.003)
  • [L4] The procedure is technically feasible, allows accurate reconstruction of the weight bearing surface of the joint and secure internal fixation of the fracture. [6] (10.1007/s00167-006-0234-3)
  • [L4] Regardless of fixation strategy, posterior ring reduction and stabilization is crucial. [7] (10.5435/jaaos-d-17-00839)
  • [L4] The technique was clinically feasible, allowing the quadrilateral plate to be anchored by percutaneous screws and enabling some degree of fracture gap reduction. [8] (10.1016/j.injury.2011.08.002)
  • [L5] The intrinsic instability of hexapod devices leads to higher shear forces which may cause failure, delayed union, or pseudarthrosis; new biomechanical studies are necessary to compare device modifications to reduce complications. [9] (10.1016/j.injury.2019.08.028)
  • [Paper] Immediate exploration is proposed for open fractures, irreducible fractures, unacceptable reduction, associated vascular injuries, radial nerve palsy after manipulation, or intractable neurogenic pain. [10] (10.1016/j.injury.2013.01.004)
  • [Paper] A small clamp has been devised to maintain the reduction of bone fragments whilst they are being fixed. [11] (10.1016/s0020-1383(79)80085-6)
  • [L5] Parallel placement of 2 plates in the sagittal plane is as strong or stronger than the 90°/90° orientation, and linking the plates together through the bone offers the greatest biomechanical stability for comminuted distal humeral fractures. [17] (10.1016/j.jse.2004.09.033)
  • [L3] [41] (10.1186/s12891-018-2279-0)
  • [Paper] The clinical results of the Local anaesthesia in the reduction of Colles' fracture should make an interesting and useful study. [44] (10.1016/s0020-1383(73)80021-x)

References

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[2] Percutaneous Screw Fixation or Cast Immobilization for Nondisplaced Scaphoid Fractures. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery-American Volume. 2001. DOI: 10.2106/00004623-200104000-00001

[3] How to avoid overlong screws. Injury. 1996. DOI: 10.1016/0020-1383(96)00024-1

[4] 3D computational anatomy of the scaphoid and its waist for use in fracture treatment. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research. 2021. DOI: 10.1186/s13018-021-02330-8

[5] Incidence of Ligamentous and Other Injuries Associated With Scaphoid Fractures During Arthroscopically Assisted Reduction and Percutaneous Fixation. Arthroscopy. 2008. DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2008.01.003

[6] Arthroscopic treatment of a juvenile tillaux fracture. Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy. 2006. DOI: 10.1007/s00167-006-0234-3

[7] Fixation of Anterior Pelvic Ring Injuries. Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2019. DOI: 10.5435/jaaos-d-17-00839

[8] Percutaneous screw fixation for the acetabular fracture with quadrilateral plate involved by three-dimensional fluoroscopy navigation: Surgical technique. Injury. 2012. DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2011.08.002

[9] External fixation of the lower extremities: Constantly striving for the best results. Injury. 2019. DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2019.08.028

[10] Approach to radial nerve palsy caused by humerus shaft fracture: Is primary exploration necessary?. Injury. 2013. DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2013.01.004

[11] Bone fragment clamp. Injury. 1979. DOI: 10.1016/s0020-1383(79)80085-6

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[33] Green S Operative Hand Surgery. Biomechanics of Scaphoid Fractures and Implications of Nonunion.

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[44] From Mr. J. C. Scott. Injury. 1973. DOI: 10.1016/s0020-1383(73)80021-x