Percutaneous fixation of scaphoid fractures

Abstract

Recent advances in techniques and implants have led to renewed interest in percutaneous screw fixation of acute scaphoid fractures. The closed (cast) treatment of acute scaphoid fractures generally has good outcome, with bony union resulting; however, closed treatment can result in delayed union, nonunion, malunion, cast- induced joint stiffness, and lost time from employment and avocations. Acute percutaneous fixation of scaphoid fracture has been proposed as a means to minimize some of the complications of closed (cast) treatment. Percutaneous treatment of both nondisplaced and displaced scaphoid fractures reportedly can achieve a nearly 100% union rate with minimal complications. Fixation of scaphoid fractures with headless compression screws can be done using both volar and dorsal approaches. The fracture reduction and alignment are assessed by fluoroscopy and arthroscopy. Appropriately performed acute percutaneous internal fixation is now a standard treatment option for a selected group of patients with acute scaphoid fracture.