Scaphoid fracture

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Scaphoid fracture
X-ray of a scaphoid fracture
Synonyms	Carpal scaphoid fracture
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Wrist pain, tenderness in the anatomical snuffbox
Complications	Avascular necrosis, nonunion, arthritis
Onset	Sudden, following trauma
Duration	Weeks to months, depending on treatment
Types	N/A
Causes	Fall on an outstretched hand
Risks	Sports injuries, motor vehicle accidents
Diagnosis	Physical examination, X-ray, MRI
Differential diagnosis	Wrist sprain, distal radius fracture
Prevention	Use of protective gear, avoiding falls
Treatment	Casting, surgery
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Good with treatment, risk of complications if untreated
Frequency	Common in young adults
Deaths	N/A

A Scaphoid Fracture is a common type of wrist injury that often occurs when a person falls onto an outstretched hand. The scaphoid bone is one of the small bones in the wrist, and it is the one most likely to break in this type of fall.

Wrist fracture - Scaphoid fracture 1 -- Smart-Servier

Causes

The most common cause of a scaphoid fracture is a fall onto an outstretched hand. This can happen in a variety of situations, such as during sports, in a car accident, or simply when slipping on ice. Other causes can include direct blows to the wrist or stress from repetitive activities.

Symptoms

The main symptom of a scaphoid fracture is pain in the wrist, especially when moving it or gripping something. There may also be swelling and tenderness around the base of the thumb. In some cases, the pain may be mild and the person may not realize that the bone is broken.

Diagnosis

A scaphoid fracture is diagnosed through a physical examination and imaging tests. The doctor will ask about the person's medical history and how the injury occurred. They will also examine the wrist to check for pain, swelling, and range of motion. Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may be used to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

The treatment for a scaphoid fracture depends on the severity of the fracture and the person's overall health. Treatment options can include immobilization with a cast or splint, pain medication, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. The goal of treatment is to promote healing, restore function, and prevent complications.

Prevention

Preventing scaphoid fractures involves taking precautions to avoid falls and other injuries. This can include wearing protective gear during sports, using caution when walking on slippery surfaces, and strengthening the wrist muscles through exercise.

See Also

• Wrist Fracture
• Bone Fracture
• Hand Injuries