Non-operative treatment of non-displaced scaphoid fractures may be preferred.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the outcome of non-displaced scaphoid fractures treated with 6 weeks of cast immobilisation, and to establish whether the benefits of non-operative treatment might outweigh those of early operation.


METHODS
A retrospective study analysed 89 consecutive cases of scaphoid fracture treated at our institution between 2004 and 2007. Diagnosis and treatment methods and complication rates were evaluated.


RESULTS
Among 71 non-displaced scaphoid fractures, >80% showed clinical consolidation after 6 weeks of cast immobilisation, and the remaining cases after 8-12 weeks. Two cases needed a longer period of cast immobilisation.


CONCLUSIONS
A restricted period of cast immobilisation is usually adequate for the treatment of non-displaced scaphoid fractures.
Rhemrev
Steven J
SJ
Department of Trauma Surgery, Medical Centre Haaglanden, The Hague, Netherlands. rhemrev@mchaaglanden.nl
van Leerdam
Roderick H
RH
Ootes
Daan
D
Beeres
Frank J P
FJ
Meylaerts
Sven A G
SA