Conservative treatment of scaphoid fractures: a follow up study.

Background and aims: This investigation was made to elucidate the outcome of conservatively treated scaphoid fractures.

Material and methods: 63 patients with a scaphoid fracture were treated initially conservatively and examined retrospectively. The mean follow up time was 54 months.

Results: In this group bone union was achieved in 56 cases (89%). Three of the patients ended up to operation because of delayed union soon after conservative treatment and three nonunions were found in the follow up appointment. One fracture did not heal because of dislocation during cast treatment and was treated with operation. Incidence of osteoarthrosis and residual symptoms were studied in the group with totally conservative treatment. Osteoarthrosis was found in 19 (32%) wrists, but no correlation with wrist problems (pain, reduced grip strength or problems at work) was found. 20 (34%) of the patients complained residual symptoms. Most of the symptoms were mild and did not impair their ability to work or cause serious problems during free time.

Conclusion: According to the present study conservative treatment is a safe method for the treatment of undislocated stabile scaphoid fractures.