Scaphoid Fracture

1. Direct Functional Treatment: In a case where there are clinical signs of a scaphoid fracture but no radiographic signs, functional treatment may be implemented using a bandage or orthrisus. Patients should have repeated radiographs after seven days of injury to reevaluate the treatment strategy for the athlete. There is no indication to use this treatment option if there is any proven signs of a scaphoid fracture through radiographs. Immobilization or operative fixation should be utilized in this case.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. Cast Immobilization: When the scaphoid is fractured but still in a stable position, casting is the preferred treatment of choice. The thumb may or may not be included in the cast. There also seems to be a positive effect on immobilizing the wrist in slight dorsal extension to help provide increased grip strength and ROM in the wrist. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. Operative Treatment: As improved, minimally invasive surgery has occurred recently, the use of surgical intervention has increased. Operative treatment is indicated in the case of an unstable fracture to the scaphoid. Because surgery allows the patient early productivity and a decreased period of immobilization, this seems to be the more reasonable option.