Scaphoid fracture epidemiology

Authors:
  • PJPaul J. Jenkins
    Paul J. Jenkins
  • SAStuart A. Aitken
    Stuart A. Aitken
  • NCNicholas D. Clement
    Nicholas D. Clement
  • CCCharles M. Court-Brown
    Charles M. Court-Brown
  • MMMargaret M. McQueen
    Margaret M. McQueen
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Abstract
The current available literature related to scaphoid fracture epidemiology is inconsistent. The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiology of true scaphoid fractures in a defined adult population. Using a prospective database, we identified all patients who sustained a radiographically confirmed acute fracture of the scaphoid over a 1-year period. Age, gender, mechanism of injury, the Herbert fracture classification, and associated injuries were recorded and analyzed. There were 151 scaphoid fractures diagnosed giving an annual incidence of 29 per 100,000 (95% confidence interval, 25–34). The median age of males was significantly younger when compared with females (p = 0.002), with a male (n = 105) predominance seen (p < 0.001). Low-energy falls from a standing height were most common (40.4%), but with males being significantly more likely to sustain their fracture after a high-energy injury (p < 0.001). The most common fracture was Herbert classification B2 (n = 55, 36.4%), with unstable fractures more common in younger patients (p = 0.025) following a high-energy injury (p = 0.042). We have reported the epidemiology of true scaphoid fractures, with young males at risk of sustaining a fracture. Knowledge of the true incidence of scaphoid fractures and an understanding of the demographic risk factors are essential when assessing the suspected scaphoid fracture, particularly when considering further imaging modalities.

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