The Scaphoid is one of the small carpal bones in the wrist. Scaphoid fractures are most commonly caused by a fall on an outstretched hand.
Symptoms generally include pain at the base of the thumb which is worse with use of the hand, tenderness and swelling.
X-ray is required to confirm diagnosis; however sometimes scaphoid fractures can go unnoticed and even an x-ray may not reveal a fracture. Careful assessment and referral for more investigations is sometimes needed if a scaphoid fracture is suspected.
The scaphoid is a slow healing bone due to it’s compromised blood supply. Some scaphoid fractures can be treated in a custom made thermoplastic splint which protects the bone whilst it is healing. Some fractures require surgery to ensure healing and correct alignment.
