[Fresh fractures! Classification, management, results and problems: the wrist joint]

Abstract

Carpal bone fractures are rare, with an incidence of 13% compared to that of fractures and luxations of the hand bones. Generally they are intraarticular fractures. Fracture of the scaphoid bone occurs most frequently, with an incidence of 75%. The greater number of fractures is found in the middle-third of the wrist bordering on the os lunatum. They are usually treated conservatively by splinting with a cast. Surgery is indicated only when the fracture is open, instable, dislocated or combined with carpal instabilities.