Scaphoid Fractures

What is a scaphoid fracture?

A scaphoid fracture is a break in one of the small carpal bones in the wrist. It is the most common bone broken in the wrist. It is usually caused by falling onto an outstretched hand.

Some sports like gymnastics that put repetitive stress on the scaphoid bone can also increase the risk of fracture amongst other injuries such as hard blow to the palm of your hand or a car accident.

Scaphoid fractures can be difficult to diagnose as it is not always obvious there is an injury. Many people don’t show any signs of deformity or swelling leading them to think it is not fractured and is just a sprain and don’t seek medical advice straight away.

Pain and discomfort can occur in the wrist and if it hasn’t settled down after a few weeks, it is recommended to visit a doctor for an assessment.

It is important to diagnose a scaphoid fracture as quickly as possible and immobilise the wrist. Failure to do this will delay healing and may make it more difficult for the fracture to heal and is called a non-union fracture.

Diagnosis

Scaphoid fractures may be prevalent on examination of the wrist. There is an area called the anatomical snuffbox, a depressed area on the back of the hand at the base of the thumb, which is tender to touch when the scaphoid is fractured, as well as movement of the wrist in certain directions will cause pain and discomfort.

You may need an x-ray to determine whether you have a scaphoid fracture, however a fracture sometimes will not show for up to two weeks after the injury has taken place. The bones will have already started to heal at this point, so you may need a repeat x-ray after 14 days to confirm the injury.

Non-surgical treatments

Before going down the surgery route, it may be possible to allow the scaphoid to heal using a plaster cast if a fracture is present. This will normally be in place for 8 to 12 weeks to allow the healing process to take place. You must ensure you keep exercising your arm to avoid stiffness, and you must also keep your plaster cast dry at all times. You can take paracetamol and ibuprofen to help with any pain that you may be experiencing.

Surgical treatments

If your scaphoid doesn’t heal with casting or is a particularly complicated fracture, you may need surgery.

You will be placed under a general anaesthetic, and your surgeon will make a small cut in your hand or on the back of your wrist. A screw or wires will be inserted to help hold the fracture together so that the bones can be repaired. In some cases, a bone graft may be required.

Your recovery

You should be able to go home the same day as your surgery. Your wrist will be in a cast, so you will need to speak with the surgeon to determine when you can go back to work, as you should avoid any heavy lifting or tasks that may put pressure on the affected area for up to six weeks. The average healing time is approximately 12 weeks. After this time you will see your surgeon and they will discuss with you whether you need to see a hand therapist to assist with rehabilitation.

Whatever your hand or wrist condition is, we can help.

Mr Randeep Mohil provides clinics across Lancashire and Cheshire.

Please call us on 01625 466158 or email info@northwesthandsurgeon.co.uk

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Lancashire Clinics

The Beardwood Hospital, Blackburn
Clinic days: Monday evenings (alternate) and Thursday mornings
Website: The Beardwood Hospital
Ramsay Fulwood Hospital, Preston
Clinic days: Monday and Tuesday evenings (alternate)
Website: Ramsay Fulwood Hall

Ramsay Euxton Hall Hospital, Chorley Clinic days: Tuesday evenings (alternate) Website:Ramsay Euxton Hall

Cheshire Clinic, Northwich Clinic days: Friday morning (alternate) Website: The Cheshire Clinic

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Scaphoid Fractures

What is a scaphoid fracture?

Diagnosis

Non-surgical treatments

Surgical treatments

Your recovery

Whatever your hand or wrist condition is, we can help.

Get in touch