What is the best treatment for a scaphoid fracture?

What is the best treatment for a scaphoid fracture?

There are two general approaches for treatment of a scaphoid fracture: cast immobilization or surgical stabilization. As long as the scaphoid fracture is not displaced (out of position), cast immobilization is a very reasonable treatment. The cast must extend over your thumb to limit the mobility of your thumb.

How long does scaphoid fracture take to heal?

The peculiarity of its blood supply is the primary reason for this prolonged healing period. Whereas other fractures in the upper extremity require an average of six weeks, a scaphoid fracture requires an average of 12 weeks if treated immediately, and as long as six months if the diagnosis is delayed.

Is a fracture of the scaphoid serious?

Scaphoid fractures that are not diagnosed and treated are in danger of developing two serious complications: Nonunion—when the bone fragments heal improperly or incompletely. Avascular necrosis—when the fracture causes blood supply to be cut off to part or all of the bone, causing the bone tissue to die.

What is the most common complication of scaphoid fracture?

Avascular necrosis is common complication of a scaphoid fracture (in around 30% of cases), with its risk increasing the more proximal the fracture. Non-union is the bone failing to heal properly, most commonly due to a poor blood supply.

Does a scaphoid fracture need a cast?

Whether your treatment is surgical or nonsurgical, you may be required to wear a cast or splint for up to 6 months or until your fracture has healed. Unlike most other fractures, scaphoid fractures tend to heal slowly.

How long do you have to wear a cast after scaphoid surgery?

Scaphoid fractures tend to take longer to heal than other breaks. You may have to wear a cast or splint for up to 6 months. You will visit with your doctor throughout the recovery process, and the doctor may change recommendations based on how you’re healing.

What happens if you don’t fix scaphoid?

A scaphoid fracture can lead to wrist osteoarthritis, especially if the fracture is untreated and does not heal correctly. This is called “nonunion.” Severe cases of this kind of osteoarthritis can lead to an incorrect alignment of wrist bones in what is called scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (SNAC).

Can you move your hand with a scaphoid fracture?

A scaphoid fracture that is correctly treated soon after the injury will take about 12 weeks to heel. But an untreated fracture may take as long as six months to recover from. Untreated patients will also usually experience long-term problems moving their wrist or other complications (see below).