Non-union of Scaphoid Fracture: Comparison according to the Method of Operation / 대한정형외과학회잡지

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the operative methods which can induce an early uinon and better functional outcome in the non-union of scaphoid fracture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We evaluated 16 patients (16 cases) who had taken autogenous iliac bone graft and internal fixation with compression screws or K-wires for the treatment of scaphoid fracture non-union. The average follow-up period was 21.1 months. Anteroposterior, lateral and scaphoid views were taken at last follow-up for the purpose of evaluating radiological results. The ranges of wrist motion and grip strength were measured to evaluate functional results, and the patient's subjective responses were also evaluated. RESULTS: Radiological unions were obtained in 15 cases (93.8%) with the average time to union at 3.2 months (2~7 months) . Radio-ulnar deviation arcs and grip strength were better in the cases fixated with compression screws than K-wires. Twelve patients (75%) showed satisfactory subjective results at the time of last follow up. CONCLUSION: The iliac bone graft is a good treatment method for scaphoid fracture non-union. We think that the compression screw, which has better stability, is a more profitable fixation device for improved functional recovery.