MANAGEMENT OF SCAPHOID INJURIES WITH EARLY SPECIALIZED IMAGING AT URGENT CARE CLINICS
Dr Muhammad Asim
Februrary 2021
Abstract:
The scaphoid is the most commonly injured bone amongst carpal bones at the wrist, accounting for 10% of all hand fractures and 50% to 80% of all carpal fractures. Risk of nonunion is up to 10% in all nondisplaced fractures.1 This injury is frequent in adults and athletes who fell on their outstretched hand. There are serious consequences with misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis such as non-union, avascular necrosis, and arthritis. A high index of suspicion based on the mechanism of injury, clinical exam, followed by immobilization with delayed x-rays can prevent these complications.
Early MRI for suspected scaphoid injuries found scaphoid fracture in 40% of x-ray negative patients.2 Early referral to a specialist orthopedic or plastic surgeon for displaced fractures or if there is evidence of nonunion on follow-up can help prevent long-term complications and disability.
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