Changing patterns of scaphoid fractures in adolescents.
OBJECTIVE
To determine if the presentation of scaphoid fractures in children has changed.


METHODS
Case study with a minimum follow-up of 1 year.


METHODS
Outpatient orthopedic clinic in an urban pediatric hospital.


METHODS
Twenty-one adolescents (mean age 13.9 years) with scaphoid fractures and an open distal radial growth plate. Fracture healing was assessed at 2-week intervals until union was achieved.


METHODS
Immobilization in a short-arm thumb spica cast.


METHODS
Fracture union as defined by the absence of pain and obliteration of the fracture line. Active and passive range of motion of wrist as measured with a goniometer.


RESULTS
Only 2 of the 21 patients had avulsed fractures. Twelve fractures were located in the middle one-third of the scaphoid. All fractures healed, but two fractures were in a dorsiflexed position. All patients had full, painless range of wrist motion. No arthrosis was present.


CONCLUSIONS
The presentation of scaphoid fractures in adolescents has changed over the years and now resembles the adult pattern. Malunited scaphoid fractures may be seen. Displaced fractures should be reduced.
Stanciu
C
C
Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Sainte-Justine Hospital, Montreal, Que.
Dumont
A
A
D000058:Accidental Falls / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D000293:Adolescent; D001265:Athletic Injuries / Q000453:epidemiology; D002348:Carpal Bones / Q000293:injuries* / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology; D002370:Casts, Surgical; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D017102:Fracture Healing; D005596:Fractures, Closed / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D017759:Fractures, Malunited / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D008297:Male; D011792:Quebec / Q000453:epidemiology; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D012189:Retrospective Studies