Scaphoid fracture
A fracture of a small wrist bone, important to diagnose early.
Overview
A scaphoid fracture is a break in one of the small carpal bones, usually after a fall onto the hand. It can be missed initially but needs early diagnosis because of its blood supply and risk of non-union. Suspected cases warrant imaging.
Symptoms
- Pain at the base of the thumb / radial wrist
- Tenderness in the anatomical snuffbox
- Pain with gripping and wrist movement
- Swelling after a fall onto the hand
Causes
- A fall onto an outstretched hand
- Sporting impacts
- Direct trauma to the wrist
Treatment
- Early imaging and immobilisation if suspected
- Casting for stable fractures
- Surgical fixation for displaced or unstable fractures
- Hand therapy to restore movement and strength