Scaphoid non-union repair is a surgical procedure designed to address a scaphoid bone that has failed to heal properly following a fracture.
This condition can cause persistent pain, limited mobility, and weakness in the wrist, affecting daily activities and quality of life. Seeking timely treatment for scaphoid non-union repair is crucial to prevent long-term complications and restore function to the wrist.
Indications for scaphoid non-union repair include persistent wrist pain, tenderness in the anatomical snuffbox (a depression on the back of the hand), limited range of motion in the wrist, weakness in grip strength, and difficulty performing daily tasks.
These symptoms may indicate a non-union fracture that requires surgical intervention to promote proper healing and prevent further damage to the wrist joint.
During scaphoid non-union repair surgery, the orthopedic surgeon will make an incision in the wrist to access the scaphoid bone.
The surgeon will then remove any scar tissue or non-union bone fragments, realign the bone ends, and stabilize the bone using screws, plates, or bone grafts to promote healing.
The procedure aims to restore the structural integrity of the scaphoid bone and facilitate proper bone fusion for optimal function.
Scaphoid non-union repair surgery is typically performed by an experienced orthopedic surgeon specializing in hand and wrist injuries. These surgeons have advanced training and expertise in treating complex conditions of the hand and wrist, including scaphoid fractures and non-unions.
It is essential to choose a skilled surgeon who can provide personalized care and ensure the best possible outcome for your scaphoid non-union repair surgery.
Before undergoing scaphoid non-union repair surgery, your healthcare team will provide detailed instructions on how to prepare for the procedure.
This may include fasting before surgery, avoiding certain medications that can increase the risk of bleeding, and arranging for transportation to and from the surgical facility.
It is essential to follow your surgeon's recommendations closely to ensure a smooth and successful surgical experience.
The recovery process after scaphoid non-union repair surgery typically involves wearing a splint or cast to immobilize the wrist and protect the healing bone. Physical therapy may be recommended to improve range of motion, strength, and function in the wrist.
It is essential to follow your surgeon's post-operative care instructions, attend follow-up appointments, and engage in rehabilitation exercises to optimize recovery and regain full use of your wrist.
A scaphoid non-union occurs when the broken bone does not heal properly. This can happen due to poor blood supply to the bone, displacement of the fracture, or inadequate immobilization.
Scaphoid non-union is repaired through surgery to fix the broken bone with screws, bone grafts, or a combination of both. This procedure helps stabilize the bone to promote healing.
After scaphoid non-union repair, you will typically wear a cast for several weeks, followed by physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion in your wrist. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions closely to ensure proper healing.
In some cases, scaphoid non-union can be treated without surgery using a cast or a brace to immobilize the wrist and allow the bone to heal. However, surgery may be necessary in other situations.
The risks associated with scaphoid non-union repair include infection, stiffness, nerve damage, and the possibility of the bone not healing properly.
It usually takes about 3 to 6 months for the bone to heal after scaphoid non-union repair.
Repairing a scaphoid non-union can help prevent arthritis by restoring the normal alignment and function of the wrist joint.
The success rate of scaphoid non-union repair surgery is generally high, with around 85-95% of patients experiencing successful bone healing after the procedure.
Complications after scaphoid non-union repair can include infection, stiffness, nerve damage, arthritis, or the bone not healing properly.
You can typically resume normal activities within 3 to 6 months after scaphoid non-union repair surgery, depending on your healing process.