Our Summary

The paper deals with a type of wrist injury called scaphoid fractures, which are most common among children and teenagers. The way these injuries happen in young people has started to look more like how they happen in adults, with the most common type being a break in the middle of the scaphoid bone. This change is being attributed to kids and teens getting bigger and taking part in more extreme sports.

Diagnosing these fractures involves a physical exam and X-rays. If the doctors suspect a fracture but can’t see it on the initial X-rays, they might put a cast on the wrist and take more images later to make sure. An MRI can also help diagnose these injuries in children whose bones are still developing.

If the fracture hasn’t moved out of place, it can usually heal well with just a cast. But if it’s displaced, surgery might be necessary, especially if the injury isn’t treated right away. The good news is that with the right treatment, patients with these types of fractures can expect to have a full recovery in the long run.

FAQs

  1. What is a scaphoid fracture and who is most likely to get it?
  2. How are scaphoid fractures diagnosed in children and teenagers?
  3. What treatment options are available for scaphoid fractures?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about scaphoid fracture surgery is to follow all post-operative instructions carefully, including keeping the wrist elevated, wearing a splint or cast as directed, and attending all follow-up appointments. It is important to not rush the healing process and to give the wrist time to heal properly to avoid any complications. Additionally, physical therapy may be recommended to help regain strength and mobility in the wrist after surgery.

Suitable For

Typically, patients who are recommended scaphoid fracture surgery are those with displaced fractures that are not healing properly with conservative treatment such as casting. Surgery may also be recommended for patients with delayed diagnosis or treatment of the fracture, as well as for those involved in high-impact or extreme sports where there is a higher risk of re-injury. Additionally, patients with certain medical conditions that may affect the healing process, such as diabetes or osteoporosis, may also be recommended surgery to ensure proper healing of the fracture. Ultimately, the decision to undergo surgery for a scaphoid fracture is based on the individual patient’s specific circumstances and the recommendations of their healthcare provider.

Timeline

Timeline:

  1. Injury occurs, causing pain and swelling in the wrist
  2. Patient seeks medical attention and undergoes physical exam and X-rays for diagnosis
  3. If fracture is suspected but not visible on initial X-rays, a cast may be applied and further imaging tests may be done
  4. Diagnosis is confirmed, and treatment plan is determined (cast or surgery)
  5. If surgery is required, patient undergoes procedure to realign the fracture and stabilize the bone with screws or pins
  6. Patient is monitored post-surgery for any complications and begins rehabilitation exercises to regain strength and mobility in the wrist
  7. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to track healing progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan
  8. Over time, patient gradually resumes normal activities and eventually achieves full recovery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What type of scaphoid fracture do I have and how severe is it?
  2. Do I need surgery for my scaphoid fracture or can it be treated with a cast?
  3. What are the risks and benefits of scaphoid fracture surgery?
  4. How long is the recovery process after scaphoid fracture surgery?
  5. Will I need physical therapy after surgery to regain strength and range of motion in my wrist?
  6. What are the potential complications or long-term effects of not treating a scaphoid fracture promptly?
  7. How long will I need to wear a cast or splint after surgery?
  8. Will I need any follow-up appointments or imaging studies to monitor the healing process?
  9. Are there any restrictions on activities or sports I should follow after surgery to prevent re-injury?
  10. What is the success rate of scaphoid fracture surgery in patients of my age and activity level?

Reference

Authors: Ting B, Sesko Bauer A, Abzug JM, Cornwall R, Wyrick TO, Bae DS. Journal: Instr Course Lect. 2017 Feb 15;66:429-436. PMID: 28594519