Diagnostic Strategy for Suspected Scaphoid Fractures in the Presence of Other Fractures in the Carpal Region

2006 ◽  
Vol 31 (4) ◽  
pp. 416-418 ◽  
Author(s):  
F. J. P. BEERES ◽  
M. HOGERVORST ◽  
P. DEN HOLLANDER ◽  
S. J. RHEMREV
Keyword(s):  
Bone Scintigraphy ◽  
Bone Fractures ◽  
Scaphoid Fracture ◽  
Diagnostic Process ◽  
Scaphoid Bone ◽  
Diagnostic Strategy ◽  
X Rays ◽  
Scaphoid Fractures ◽  
Bone Injury ◽  
Suspected Scaphoid Fracture

Bone scintigraphy will identify up to 25% of occult scaphoid bone fractures after negative scaphoid X-rays. Consequently, it deserves a place in the diagnostic process of suspected scaphoid fractures. However, the role of bone scintigraphy is less clear if scaphoid X-rays show other fractures in the carpal region. We analysed 111 consecutive patients with a suspected scaphoid fracture on physical examination. Scaphoid X-rays revealed 61 fractures. Fifty-five patients had scaphoid fractures only and six patients had other fractures in the carpal region but no scaphoid fracture. In 50 cases, no bone injury was seen on these X-rays. In three out of the six patients with other fractures in the carpal region, bone scintigraphy revealed four occult concomitant fractures: one scaphoid, one scaphoid and trapezial and one capitate fracture. In conclusion, bone scintigraphy is required when scaphoid X-rays do not confirm a suspected scaphoid fracture, even in the presence of other fractures in the carpal region.

The Value of Radiographs and Bone Scintigraphy in Suspected Scaphoid Fracture

1993 ◽  
Vol 18 (3) ◽  
pp. 403-406 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. M. C. TIEL-VAN BUUL ◽  
E. J. R. VAN BEEK ◽  
J. J. J. BORM ◽  
F. M. GUBLER ◽  
A. H. BROEKHUIZEN ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Bone Scintigraphy ◽  
Scaphoid Fracture ◽  
Diagnostic Strategy ◽  
Diagnostic Strategies ◽  
Scaphoid Fractures ◽  
Diagnostic Management ◽  
Kappa Value ◽  
Suspected Scaphoid Fracture

The role of radiography and bone scintigraphy in the diagnostic management of suspected scaphoid fracture is controversial. Two strategies were compared for patients with initial negative radiographs: repeated radiography versus selective bone scintigraphy. Using the known positive predictive value of scintigraphy, the sensitivity and specificity of both diagnostic strategies were evaluated in a series of 78 consecutive patients. The kappa value for initial radiographs was 0.76 but decreased to 0.5 for follow-up radiographs. Similarly, sensitivity decreased from 64% to 30% in follow-up radiographs. Specificity of the bone scan was 98%. The best diagnostic strategy in the management of clinically suspected scaphoid fractures consists of initial radiography followed by bone scintigraphy in patients with negative radiographs.

scholarly journals Systematic Review of Diagnosis of Clinically Suspected Scaphoid Fractures

2019 ◽  
Vol 09 (01) ◽  
pp. 081-089
Author(s):  
Henrik Constantin Bäcker ◽  
Chia H. Wu ◽  
Robert J. Strauch
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Ct Scan ◽  
Bone Scintigraphy ◽  
Sensitivity And Specificity ◽  
Imaging Modality ◽  
Scaphoid Fracture ◽  
Diagnostic Tools ◽  
Search Term ◽  
X Rays ◽  
Scaphoid Fractures

Background Scaphoid fracture accounts for approximately 15% of acute wrist fractures. Clinical examination and plain X-rays are commonly used to diagnose the fracture, but this approach may miss up to 16% of fractures in the absence of clear-cut lucent lines on plain radiographs. As such, additional imaging may be required. It is not clear which imaging modality is the best. The goal of this study is to summarize the current literature on scaphoid fractures to evaluate the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of four different imaging modalities. Case Description A systematic-review and meta-analysis was performed. The search term “scaphoid fracture” was used and all prospective articles investigating magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), bone scintigraphy, and ultrasound were included. In total, 2,808 abstracts were reviewed. Of these, 42 articles investigating 51 different diagnostic tools in 2,507 patients were included. Literature Review The mean age was 34.1 ± 5.7 years, and the overall incidence of scaphoid fractures missed on X-ray and diagnosed on advanced imaging was 21.8%. MRI had the highest sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing scaphoid fractures, which were 94.2 and 97.7%, respectively, followed by CT scan with a sensitivity and specificity at 81.5 and 96.0%, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of ultrasound were 81.5 and 77.4%, respectively. Significant differences between MRI, bone scintigraphy, CT, and ultrasound were identified. Clinical Relevance MRI has higher sensitivity and specificity than CT scan, bone scintigraphy, or ultrasound. Level of Evidence This is a Level II systematic review.

X-Ray Diagnosis of Acute Scaphoid Fractures

2006 ◽  
Vol 31 (1) ◽  
pp. 104-109 ◽  
Author(s):  
G. C. CHEUNG ◽  
C. J. LEVER ◽  
A. D. MORRIS
Keyword(s):  
Retrospective Review ◽  
Scaphoid Fracture ◽  
Initial Presentation ◽  
Alternative View ◽  
X Rays ◽  
X Ray ◽  
Scaphoid Fractures ◽  
Suspected Scaphoid Fracture

In a retrospective review of the radiographs taken for 113 acute scaphoid fractures, each view was assessed for the clarity of demonstration of the fracture. The X-rays on which diagnosis of fracture were made, were taken between 0 and 16 days after injury (mean, 2 days). Whenever a lateral, supinated oblique or elongated view was taken, the fracture was always seen clearly on an alternative view. We recommend the use of four views at initial presentation of suspected scaphoid fracture: PA and lateral to assess carpal alignment, with pronated oblique and ulnar deviated PA to detect the fracture.

Magnetic resonance imaging versus bone scintigraphy in suspected scaphoid fracture

1996 ◽  
Vol 23 (8) ◽  
pp. 971-975 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. M. C. Tiel-van Buul ◽  
W. Roolker ◽  
B. W. B. Verbeeten ◽  
A. H. Broekhuizen
Keyword(s):  
Magnetic Resonance Imaging ◽  
Magnetic Resonance ◽  
Bone Scintigraphy ◽  
Scaphoid Fracture ◽  
Resonance Imaging ◽  
Suspected Scaphoid Fracture

1301 Early MRI in the Diagnosis of Suspected Scaphoid Fractures – An Audit of a Redesigned Diagnostic Pathway

2021 ◽  
Vol 108 (Supplement_6) ◽  
Author(s):  
J Cullen ◽  
R Donovan ◽  
K Vipulendran ◽  
E Lostis ◽  
N Blewitt ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Scaphoid Fracture ◽  
Degenerative Change ◽  
Clinic Visit ◽  
Bone Bruise ◽  
X Rays ◽  
Scaphoid Fractures ◽  
Time Period ◽  
Audit Reports ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Limited Sequence

Abstract Introduction MRI is the gold standard for investigation of suspected scaphoid fractures, which can be missed on initial x-rays. This full cycle audit reports the impact of our new patient pathway, which changes repeat x-rays at 2 weeks to urgent limited sequence scaphoid MRI for those with normal initial x-rays, but clinical suspicion of fracture at initial clinic visit. Method A second cycle audited MRI requests for suspected scaphoid fractures at Southmead hospital following implementation of the new pathway in October 2020. We collected wait times from request to scan, and radiologist reports. Results were compared to our first cycle, 6-month time period. Results he results for 24 limited sequence MRIs via our new pathway were compared to 134 full wrist MRIs of the first cycle. Two scans (9.1%) were positive for scaphoid fracture versus 12% in the first cycle. 19 scans (86%) identified alternate pathology including sprain (6), bone bruise (5), non-scaphoid fractures (4) and degenerative change (3). 1 scan (4.5%) was reported as normal. 73% of MRIs were performed within 14 days, compared to 63% in previous cohort. Conclusions Our new pathway using limited sequence MRI identified similar rates of scaphoid fractures. Reduced time to MRI was observed compared to the previous cohort due to shorter scan durations and resulted in earlier diagnosis and fewer outpatient follow-up appointments. Our new pathway has benefits to patient experience and also reduces footfall in hospital, during a time of global Covid-19 pandemic, with no increase in costs.

scholarly journals Pediatric Scaphoid Nonunions: A Case Series, Review of the Literature, and Evidence-Based Guidelines

2019 ◽  
Vol 09 (01) ◽  
pp. 002-012 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kerstin Oestreich ◽  
Tatiana Umata Yoko Jacomel ◽  
Sami Hassan ◽  
Maxim David Horwitz ◽  
Tommy Roger Lindau
Keyword(s):  
Nonoperative Management ◽  
Pediatric Population ◽  
Scaphoid Fracture ◽  
Case Series ◽  
Fracture Site ◽  
X Rays ◽  
Review Of The Literature ◽  
Level Of Evidence ◽  
Scaphoid Fractures ◽  
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Mri

Abstract Background Scaphoid fractures represent less than 3% of hand and wrist fractures in the pediatric population. Nonunions are very rare. We present a case series (n = 18) of nonunions in skeletally immature children and adolescents. We further present a review of the literature on pediatric scaphoid nonunions. Materials and Methods We reviewed the literature by searching the main databases on pediatric scaphoid nonunions, but to identify factors that lead to nonunion, we also searched for databases on scaphoid fractures. Seventy articles were found for the period between 1961 and 2019, all with level 4/5 evidence. Results The nonunion rate of pediatric scaphoid fractures in the literature is on average 1.5%, occurring mostly as a result of missed or underdiagnosed injuries, similar to our presented case series. Half (n = 9) of the injuries in our case series were missed initial injuries, leading to scaphoid nonunions and half developed nonunions after initial treatment. We found excellent outcomes and with surgical and nonoperative management, with few complications. Not surprisingly, the duration of immobilization is longer with nonoperative management. Conclusions Based on the literature, we recommend a period of nonoperative management before surgery in undisplaced nonunions. In displaced nonunions, open reduction and internal fixation ± bone grafting is necessary. In pediatric scaphoid fractures, similar to adult cases, we identified that suspicious scaphoid fractures should be considered for initial immobilization, and repeat X-rays and early magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans should be considered at follow-up. Immobilization time and type of plaster should be appropriate in relation to the fracture site, similar to the adult scaphoid fracture. Level of Evidence This is a Level IV study.

scholarly journals The Clinical Scaphoid Fracture: Early Computed Tomography as a Practical Approach

2008 ◽  
Vol 90 (6) ◽  
pp. 488-491 ◽  
Author(s):  
Q Nguyen ◽  
S Chaudhry ◽  
R Sloan ◽  
I Bhoora ◽  
C Willard
Keyword(s):  
Ct Scan ◽  
General Hospital ◽  
Scaphoid Fracture ◽  
False Negative ◽  
False Negative Rate ◽  
District General Hospital ◽  
X Rays ◽  
Fracture Clinic ◽  
Non Union ◽  
Scaphoid Fractures

INTRODUCTION Up to 40% of scaphoid fractures are missed at initial presentation as clinical examination and plain radiographs are poor at identifying scaphoid fractures immediately after the injury. Avoiding a delay in diagnosis is essential to prevent the risk of non-union and early wrist arthritis. We demonstrate the use of CT scanning for the early confirmation of a scaphoid fracture. PATIENTS AND METHODS We conducted a retrospective, chronological review of patients who attended an upper limb fracture clinic from January 2001 to October 2003 in a small district general hospital. We performed a CT scan on all ‘clinical scaphoid’ patients who had negative plain X-ray films. RESULTS Overall, 70% of patients had a CT scan within 1 week of injury and not from date of accident and emergency attendance; 83% of patients had a CT scan within 2 weeks of injury. Of 118 patients identified, 32% had positive findings and 22% of ‘clinical scaphoid’ patients had scaphoid fractures. The proportion of positive findings for an acute scaphoid fracture was 68%. Additional pathologies identified on CT were capitate, triquetral and radial fractures. CONCLUSIONS Our audit shows that it is practical to perform CT on suspicious scaphoid fractures in a small district general hospital. We identified an extremely high false-negative rate for plain X-rays and demonstrate that the appropriate use of CT at initial fracture clinic attendance with ‘clinical scaphoid’ leads to an earlier diagnosis and reduces the need for prolonged immobilisation and repeated clinical review.

Rationale and design of the SMaRT trial: A randomised, prospective, parallel, non-blinded, one-centre trial to evaluate the use of magnetic resonance imaging in acute setting in patients presenting with suspected scaphoid fracture

2018 ◽  
Vol 15 (2) ◽  
pp. 120-129 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tiago Rua ◽  
Sanjay Vijayanathan ◽  
David Parkin ◽  
Vicky Goh ◽  
Paul McCrone ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Magnetic Resonance Imaging ◽  
National Health Service ◽  
Magnetic Resonance ◽  
Primary Outcome ◽  
Scaphoid Fracture ◽  
Resonance Imaging ◽  
Acute Setting ◽  
Scaphoid Fractures ◽  
The United Kingdom ◽  
Suspected Scaphoid Fracture

Background Wrist injury is a common presentation to the Emergency Department in the United Kingdom. Among these injuries, the scaphoid is the most common fractured carpal bone. However, given the limited ability of conventional radiography to accurately diagnose a suspected scaphoid fracture on presentation, its diagnosis and management remain challenging. Despite the vast clinical evidence supporting the superior accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging, there is little to no evidence around the real-world clinical and economic impact of immediate magnetic resonance imaging in the management of suspected scaphoid fractures. Methods Review of design and implementation challenges associated with the identification and subsequent recruitment of eligible patients, implementation of a novel clinical pathway in an acute setting, rationale behind the primary and secondary outcomes selected and measurement of the primary outcome. Results The Scaphoid Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Trauma trial is a single-site prospective, randomised, non-blinded, parallel design trial that aims to evaluate the use of immediate magnetic resonance imaging in the management of patients presenting to the acute setting with suspected scaphoid fractures. The primary outcome is the total 3-month cost per patient associated with the diagnosis and treatment of suspected scaphoid fractures. It is hypothesised that the immediate use of magnetic resonance imaging, a more accurate but expensive imaging modality, in patients with negative findings in the initial four-view radiography, will reduce the overall National Health Service costs by promoting definitive care and avoiding unnecessary diagnostic and treatment procedures. Other rationale design considerations in the recruitment, randomisation, data acquisition and intervention implementation are also discussed. Several of these challenges derive from real-world operational issues associated with the provision of magnetic resonance imaging in an intrinsically complex acute setting. Staff engagement during the trial’s planning phase, combined with an extensive training programme rolled out prior to the trial’s launch, were essential to raise staff awareness and engagement. Given the acute nature of the clinical condition, the latter was deemed essential as the eligibility assessment, recruitment, randomisation and treatment allocation processes all need to happen in a very tight time frame. Limitations Findings from the Scaphoid Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Trauma trial might not be generalisable to other National Health Service hospitals, foreign healthcare systems nor patient presentations outside normal magnetic resonance imaging working hours. Conclusion The Scaphoid Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Trauma trial was designed to evaluate the costs, patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes around the management of suspected scaphoid fractures and ultimately provide solid evidence on which to base the United Kingdom and international clinical practice. This article discusses the steps considered in the design of this novel trial, with particular emphasis on the issues and lessons learned during the planning and implementation stages.

Incidence of Scaphoid Fractures and Associated Injuries at US Trauma Centers

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Matthew E. Wells ◽  
Tyler C. Nicholson ◽  
Reuben A. Macias ◽  
Leon J. Nesti ◽  
John C. Dunn
Keyword(s):  
Distal Radius ◽  
Motor Vehicle ◽  
Bone Fractures ◽  
Scaphoid Fracture ◽  
Distal Radius Fractures ◽  
Carpal Bone ◽  
Trauma Centers ◽  
Associated Injuries ◽  
Radius Fractures ◽  
Scaphoid Fractures

Abstract Backgound The scaphoid is the most commonly fractured carpal bone and often presents as a diagnostic challenge. Fractures can often go unnoticed on initial radiographic evaluation and clinical presentation can vary significantly among patients. Awareness of high-risk cohorts assists practitioners in making the appropriate clinical diagnosis of acute scaphoid fracture. Materials and Methods The National Trauma Data Bank is the world's largest trauma data repository. Utilizing the 2016 public use file, we isolated scaphoid fractures by anatomic fracture location by utilizing International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision coding. Reported cases of distal pole (S62.01), waist (S62.02), and proximal pole (S62.03) were included. This data was then queried to determine trends in mechanism of injury, demographic information, and associated injuries. Results There were a total of 968,665 patients with 2,769 cases of reported scaphoid fractures resulting in 286 scaphoid fractures per 100,000 person-years. Males were more likely to sustain a scaphoid fracture than females. The most commonly encountered associated injuries were distal radius fractures, distal ulnar fractures, and nonscaphoid carpal bone fractures, respectively. Conclusions Scaphoid fractures presenting to trauma centers are more commonly reported among males and those involved in motor vehicle accidents or falls. Appropriate scaphoid-specific radiographic imaging should be obtained as well as wrist and elbow images to evaluate for concomitant injuries, especially distal radius fractures.

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