Scaphoid Fracture in Wrist
What is a Scaphoid Fracture?
The scaphoid is one of eight small bones in the wrist. This bone is most commonly injured due to a fall on an outstretched hand. It occurs most frequently in young men in their teens to 30s. It is common in sports injuries, motor vehicle collisions, and falls from a height. A patient with a scaphoid fracture (also called a broken scaphoid bone) will have pain on the radial (thumb) side of their wrist. They will often have pain with wrist range of motion and may also have decreased movement of the wrist.
If a scaphoid fracture is suspected, based on history and physical examination, wrist X-rays should be obtained promptly. Many patients assume that the wrist injury is "just a sprain" and do not seek care at first. Multiple x-ray views are usually needed to visualize the scaphoid adequately. However, X-rays will sometimes fail to reveal a subtle crack in the bone. Repeat x-rays may be necessary to evaluate for a scaphoid fracture if the initial x-rays are normal and the patient has continued tenderness at the scaphoid bone. Additional imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans may be ordered to evaluate the scaphoid bone in some cases.
What Treatment Options Are Available for Scaphoid Fracture of the Wrist?
If you have a scaphoid fracture, treatment is usually a cast or surgery. Scaphoid fractures heal slowly due to their limited blood flow. It may take several weeks in a cast before the fracture heals. Sometimes 3 months is required for cast treatment. Surgery is recommended for certain types of scaphoid fractures and in some patient groups. In some studies, the healing rates are better and faster with surgery versus cast treatment. Surgery can often be done through a minimally invasive approach, but does have some possible complications and surgical risks. Your doctor can talk to you about the pros and cons of each approach, and which option may be recommended for your case.
When a scaphoid fracture is not treated properly, the bone may not heal. A scaphoid bone which fails to heal is called a "nonunion." Patients may experience worsening wrist pain, decreased range of motion, and stiffness in the wrist. In time, these patients may develop wrist arthritis and may require surgical treatment in the future to decrease their pain.
Heal Effectively from a Scaphoid Fracture in Your Wrist by Contacting Us Today
A scaphoid fracture in the wrist can be challenging, but our expert team of orthopedic surgeons at Raleigh Hand to Shoulder Center is here to help you recover and regain wrist function. Your journey to recovery from a scaphoid fracture starts here. Call our office today or schedule an appointment online!
Updated 6/20/2025
Image copyright American Society for Surgery of the Hand. If you have an injury to your wrist, please call the Raleigh Hand Center to be evaluated by an upper extremity specialist.
