Our Summary
This study looked at how often surgery for a specific type of wrist bone (scaphoid) fracture happened in Finland from 1997 to 2014. They found that 1,380 people had this surgery during that time. Most of these people (84%) were men, and half of them were under 28 years old. There were two types of surgery: fixing the fracture right away, and treating fractures that hadn’t healed properly. The second type was slightly more common. The researchers also noticed that the number of these surgeries doubled overall, and tripled for the immediate fix, during the study period.
FAQs
- How many people underwent surgery for scaphoid fractures in Finland from 1997 to 2014 according to the study?
- What two types of scaphoid fracture surgeries were examined in this study and which was more common?
- Did the study reveal any trends in the frequency of these surgeries over the specified period?
Doctor’s Tip
A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about scaphoid fracture surgery is to follow the post-operative instructions carefully, including keeping the wrist immobilized as directed, attending follow-up appointments, and participating in physical therapy to aid in the healing process and regain strength and mobility in the wrist. It is important to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly to ensure proper healing and recovery.
Suitable For
Patients who are typically recommended scaphoid fracture surgery are those who have a scaphoid fracture that is displaced, unstable, or not healing properly. These patients may experience persistent pain, limited range of motion, and decreased grip strength in the affected wrist. Additionally, younger patients, particularly men under 28 years old, may be more likely to undergo surgery for a scaphoid fracture due to the higher risk of non-union or delayed healing in this age group.
Timeline
Before scaphoid fracture surgery, a patient typically experiences pain, swelling, bruising, and limited range of motion in the wrist. They may have difficulty gripping objects or performing daily activities. The patient may have undergone diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to confirm the fracture and determine the extent of the injury.
After scaphoid fracture surgery, the patient will likely experience pain and discomfort at the surgical site. They may have a cast or splint to immobilize the wrist and promote healing. Physical therapy may be recommended to regain strength and range of motion in the wrist. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon will be necessary to monitor the healing process and ensure proper recovery.
Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after scaphoid fracture surgery includes initial injury, diagnostic testing, surgical intervention, post-operative care, rehabilitation, and follow-up appointments to track progress and ensure a successful recovery.
What to Ask Your Doctor
What type of scaphoid fracture surgery do I need - fixing the fracture right away or treating a fracture that hasn’t healed properly?
What are the potential risks and complications associated with scaphoid fracture surgery?
How long is the recovery time after scaphoid fracture surgery?
What can I expect in terms of pain management after the surgery?
Will I need physical therapy or rehabilitation after the surgery?
How successful is scaphoid fracture surgery in terms of long-term outcomes and preventing future complications?
Are there any alternative treatments or non-surgical options for my scaphoid fracture?
How experienced are you in performing scaphoid fracture surgery?
What should I do to prepare for the surgery, including any pre-operative instructions?
What follow-up care will be necessary after the surgery, and when can I expect to return to normal activities?
Reference
Authors: Raittio LT, Jokihaara J, Huttunen TT, Leppänen OV, Launonen AP, Mattila VM. Journal: J Hand Surg Eur Vol. 2018 May;43(4):402-406. doi: 10.1177/1753193417726051. Epub 2017 Aug 21. PMID: 28825372