Bone Grafts for Scaphoid Nonunion: An Overview

Abstract

The scaphoid is the most common fractured bone in the wrist. Despite adequate non-surgical treatment, around 10% to 15% of these fractures will not heal. Untreated scaphoid non-union can cause a scaphoid non-union advance collapse (SNAC), this is a progressive deformity and can cause degenerative changes in the wrist. Surgery is focused on achieving consolidation, pain reduction and a good position of the scaphoid while preventing osteoarthritis in the long-term. Surgery consists of reduction and fixation of the scaphoid with a non-vascularized or vascularized bone graft. An overview of the most used vascularized and non-vascularized bone grafts and their indications are presented.