title: Acute Scaphoid Fractures: A Critical Analysis Review.
abstract: Nondisplaced scaphoid fractures can be effectively treated nonoperatively, with union rates approaching or, in some series, exceeding the rates attained with operative intervention. The evidence supports equal outcomes when using a short arm or long arm cast for the closed treatment of nondisplaced scaphoid fractures. Also, equivalent outcomes have been demonstrated with or without a thumb spica component to the cast. Operative intervention is the recommended treatment for displaced scaphoid fractures. Advanced imaging should be obtained if clinical suspicion is present for a scaphoid fracture with negative radiographs more than 2 weeks after the injury. In some settings, it may even be more cost-effective to obtain advanced imaging sooner.
authors.affiliation: OrthoCarolina Hand Center, Charlotte, North Carolina.
authors.forename: Mark A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Tait
authors.forename: John W
authors.initials: JW
authors.lastname: Bracey
authors.forename: R Glenn
authors.initials: RG
authors.lastname: Gaston
mesh_terms: D002370:Casts, Surgical; D005592:Fracture Fixation; D006801:Humans; D021361:Scaphoid Bone / Q000293:injuries*; D014954:Wrist Injuries