The treatment of this injury presents a number of challenges:
Scaphoid fractures can be treated with the use of a below elbow cast, or with operative techniques which aim to reduce the fracture (i.e. bring the two parts of the bone back together) and compress it with a screw that is buried within the bone. In some cases it is possible to insert such a screw using a 'percutaneous' technique, where only a 5mm incision is required. Such a technique can speed recovery and has the advantage of minimising dissection and damage to the scaphoid's blood supply.
In cases where the fixation is delayed, or there is an established non-union, bone graft will be required. This may be taken from the nearby distal radius, or from the hip bone (iliac crest).
Factors which determine which treatment is optimal include:
Mr Gidwani will be able to explain the appropriate treatment options to you, as well as their advantages, disadvantages and potential risks. As with the treatment of any broken bone, the aim is to encourage the bone to heal in a position that enhances recovery, so that in time you can regain good function of the hand and wrist. If necessary hand therapy will be used to help this process.