Scaphoid fracture epidemiology

Abstract

Background: The current available literature related to scaphoid fracture epidemiology is inconsistent. The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiology of true scaphoid fractures in a defined adult population.

Methods: Using a prospective database, we identified all patients who sustained a radiographically confirmed acute fracture of the scaphoid over a 1-year period. Age, gender, mechanism of injury, the Herbert fracture classification, and associated injuries were recorded and analyzed.

Results: There were 151 scaphoid fractures diagnosed giving an annual incidence of 29 per 100,000 (95% confidence interval, 25–34). The median age of males was significantly younger when compared with females (p = 0.002), with a male (n = 105) predominance seen (p 0.001). Low-energy falls from a standing height were most common (40.4%), but with males being significantly more likely to sustain their fracture after a high-energy injury (p 0.001). The most common fracture was Herbert classification B2 (n =55, 36.4%), with unstable fractures more common in younger patients (p = 0.025) following a high-energy injury (p = 0.042).

Conclusions: We have reported the epidemiology of true scaphoid fractures, with young males at risk of sustaining a fracture. Knowledge of the true incidence of scaphoid fractures and an understanding of the demographic risk factors are essential when assessing the suspected scaphoid fracture, particularly when considering further imaging modalities.