The scaphocapitate fracture syndrome: a case report and literature analysis

Eur J Orthop Surg Traumatol. 2013 Nov:23 Suppl 2:S207-12. doi: 10.1007/s00590-013-1182-5. Epub 2013 Feb 7.

Abstract

Scaphocapitate fracture syndrome is rare, complex injury. We report an unusual presentation of scaphocapitate fracture syndrome, involving fracture of the scaphoid and capitate associated with volar dislocation of the lunate and scaphoid and the proximal fragment of the capitate in a 30-year-old male after a motor vehicle accident. Computed tomography was found to be helpful for achieving the correct diagnosis. Open reduction and internal fixation was performed. The scaphoid fracture was fixed using a headless compression screw, and the volar displaced proximal fragment of the capitate was reduced to its original position, but could not be fixed because of severe comminution. This case cautions that the capitate fragment should not be excised even when it cannot be fixed due to comminution.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Capitate Bone / diagnostic imaging
  • Capitate Bone / injuries*
  • Fracture Fixation, Internal
  • Fractures, Bone / diagnostic imaging
  • Fractures, Bone / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Joint Dislocations / diagnostic imaging
  • Joint Dislocations / surgery*
  • Lunate Bone / diagnostic imaging
  • Male
  • Scaphoid Bone / diagnostic imaging
  • Scaphoid Bone / injuries*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Wrist Injuries / diagnostic imaging
  • Wrist Injuries / surgery*