Our Summary

This study aimed to understand how the location and complexity of a break in the scaphoid bone (one of the small bones in the wrist) can affect how much the bone shifts out of place. The team used 3D CT scans to study 51 adults who had recently broken their scaphoid bone. They found that the more towards the back of the hand the break was, the more the bone shifted. Also, the more complex the break was, the more the bone shifted. This information can help surgeons better understand how to fix a displaced scaphoid fracture.

FAQs

  1. What was the purpose of the study on scaphoid fracture surgery?
  2. How did the location of the break in the scaphoid bone affect the amount it shifted out of place?
  3. How can this study on scaphoid fractures help surgeons in their surgical procedures?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about scaphoid fracture surgery is to follow post-operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. This may include keeping the wrist immobilized for a certain period of time, attending physical therapy sessions, and avoiding activities that could put strain on the healing bone. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

Suitable For

Patients who have a displaced scaphoid fracture, particularly those with breaks located towards the back of the hand or with more complex fractures, are typically recommended for scaphoid fracture surgery. Surgery may be necessary to realign the bones and stabilize the fracture to promote proper healing and prevent long-term complications such as arthritis or decreased range of motion in the wrist.

Timeline

Before scaphoid fracture surgery:

  1. Patient experiences pain, swelling, and tenderness in the wrist.
  2. Patient may have difficulty gripping or holding objects.
  3. Patient undergoes X-rays and possibly a CT scan to determine the extent of the fracture.
  4. Patient may be placed in a cast or splint to stabilize the wrist while waiting for surgery.

After scaphoid fracture surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes surgery to realign the fractured bone and secure it with screws or pins.
  2. Patient may need to wear a cast or splint for several weeks to allow the bone to heal.
  3. Patient undergoes physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion in the wrist.
  4. Patient may need follow-up appointments and imaging studies to monitor the healing process and ensure proper alignment of the bone.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the specific location and complexity of my scaphoid fracture?
  2. How much has my scaphoid bone shifted out of place?
  3. What are the risks and benefits of scaphoid fracture surgery?
  4. What is the success rate of this surgery for my specific type of fracture?
  5. What is the recovery process like after scaphoid fracture surgery?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or non-surgical options available for my scaphoid fracture?
  7. How long will it take for me to regain full function and range of motion in my wrist after surgery?
  8. What are the potential complications or long-term effects of not having surgery for my scaphoid fracture?
  9. Will I need physical therapy or rehabilitation after scaphoid fracture surgery?
  10. Are there any specific precautions or restrictions I should follow during the healing process after surgery?

Reference

Authors: Bulstra AEJ, Al-Dirini RMA, Turow A, Oldhoff MGE, Bryant K, Obdeijn MC, Doornberg JN, Jaarsma RL, Bain GI. Journal: J Hand Surg Eur Vol. 2021 Dec;46(10):1072-1080. doi: 10.1177/17531934211040962. Epub 2021 Sep 2. PMID: 34472394