We investigated the use of real time linear ultrasonography in determining movement at a scaphoid fracture site in 27 patients with non-united scaphoid fractures. 24 of these patients had surgical treatment. Fracture movement was observed at the time of surgery and this was compared with the ultrasonographic findings. The technique proved to be 100% specific for visualization of movement at the fracture site and it was non-invasive. However, it was of no benefit in assessing proximal pole non-union.